SAN DIEGO- Ryan Bergert was recalled from Triple-A El Paso and gets the start tonight against the New York Mets (62-45).
Bergert hasn’t started for the Padres since July 11th. He has been reliable as a starter with a 2.84 ERA in 31.2 innings pitched.
“My goal is to just be as reliable as possible,” said Bergert. “Just go out, make a quality start, keep the team in it and give them a chance to win.”
Bergert won’t have an easy task against a tough Mets offense that boasts Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto and Pete Alonso. New York ranks in the top ten in both home runs and slugging.
Despite the powerful offense of the Mets, Bergert’s mindset is to stick with what he knows.
“I’m treating it like every other start. Every start up here is against a really good lineup,” said Bergert.
Constantly getting sent back up and down from the big leagues and Triple-A can be difficult for a ball player. Bergert is trusting his stuff and ability to help him get through the constant roller coaster of a season.
“Being up and down with the team has definitely been something new to go through,” said Bergert. “Believing in myself is what I think I've learned the most.”
BRYCE JOHNSON STAYING HOT
Bryce Johnson is back in the lineup and is emerging as an everyday player for the Friars. He gets the start in left field with Gavin Sheets getting the day off.
“Bryce has played well,” said manager Mike Shildt. “He’s been able to use his skillset. He’s a really good defender.”
Outside of the great play defensively, Johnson has been productive at the plate. He is currently slashing .366/.395/.439 during the 2025 season.
“Offensively, a switch hitter helps. He’s been able to contribute on both sides of the plate," said Shildt. “He’s been able to get bunts down, move runners over, get on base.”
Johnson’s unique skill set of speed, defense and switch-hitting could raise eyes for other clubs with the trade deadline approaching. If Johnson stays in a Padres uniform for the 2025 season, he can be a productive bat in the back end of the lineup, which is much needed for San Diego.