Kolek's Perfect Game: Padres Rewrite Record Books

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Kolek's Perfect Game: Padres Rewrite Record Books

San Diego, CA – In a stunning display of pitching prowess that will be etched in baseball history, Padres rookie right-hander, Michael Kolek, threw a perfect game against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday night at Petco Park. The electrifying 1-0 victory not only secured a win for the Padres but also rewrote several franchise records and sent shockwaves through the baseball world.

The 22-year-old Kolek, making only his seventh major league start, dominated the Diamondbacks' lineup from the first pitch. His fastball consistently touched 98 mph, complemented by a devastating curveball and a sharp slider that kept batters off balance throughout the entire nine innings. The performance was a masterclass in pitching precision, a testament to his talent and composure under immense pressure.

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A Historic Night in San Diego

The atmosphere at Petco Park was electric. As Kolek retired batter after batter, the tension grew palpable. Each strikeout, each perfectly placed pitch, fueled the roar of the crowd. The energy was infectious, transforming the stadium into a cauldron of anticipation. The final out, a ground ball to shortstop, erupted into a cacophony of cheers, a celebration of a truly historic moment.

• Franchise First: This marked the first perfect game in San Diego Padres franchise history. A milestone achievement that had eluded the team for over 50 years.
• Youngest Ever: At 22 years and 115 days old, Kolek became the youngest Padres pitcher to throw a perfect game, shattering previous records.
• Dominant Performance: Kolek's performance included 15 strikeouts, a new single-game Padres record for a perfect game. His pinpoint accuracy resulted in only 87 pitches, a testament to his efficiency.

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A Rookie's Rise to Stardom

Kolek's journey to this monumental achievement is equally impressive. Drafted in the second round just two years ago, he quickly rose through the Padres' minor league system, showcasing exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. His ascent highlights the team’s successful player development program and bodes well for the future of the franchise. This perfect game serves as a powerful symbol of the Padres' young and burgeoning talent.

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Impact on the Padres Season

This victory isn't just a historical footnote; it's a game-changer for the Padres' season. The win catapults them further up the National League West standings, injecting a much-needed boost of confidence and momentum. Kolek's performance has undoubtedly energized the team and its fans, setting a high standard for the rest of the season.

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The Future of Michael Kolek

Kolek's perfect game will undoubtedly put him in the spotlight. He's instantly become a household name, and the baseball world is eagerly anticipating his next start. His performance cements his place as a rising star, and he’s already being discussed as a potential Cy Young contender. The future looks incredibly bright for this young pitching phenom. This is a night San Diego, and indeed the entire baseball world, will not soon forget. The legacy of Kolek's perfect game is just beginning.