San Diego faces a must-win Game 3 against Chicago as Mike Shildt tabs Yu Darvish over Michael King, with Randy Vásquez in the wings. The Padres’ bullpen has been taxed after back-to-back outings by Morejon and Mason Miller, so a sharp, efficient start from Darvish could ease late-inning pressure.

The decision pits veteran playoff pedigree against sharper season numbers. Darvish, 39, carries extensive postseason exposure but a smaller workload due to injuries, while King has the clearer statline this year. The winner advances to face Milwaukee; the loser heads home, ending San Diego’s season in a high-stakes showdown.