Former Padres Pitcher Seeking Revenge on SD in 1st Matchup Since Devastating Trade

A lot of history in this one!

The 2022 San Diego Padres squad looked far different than the current one they have been rolling out at all levels of their franchise. It was clear that even though they were short-handed to start the year, their future was looking bright with a number of talented prospects.

Specifically, the pitching depth in their farm system was quite impressive and they were starting to shut down slander from opposing clubhouses that their best players are not homegrown. However, we all know how this played out... Juan Soto became available and San Diego parted ways with majority of their top prospects.

Among these names was MacKenzie Gore, the third overall pick in the 2017 draft that posted a 3.71 ERA in the minors before getting called up. He was viewed as the golden child of the franchise and even though he struggled at times with the Padres' main roster, the belief was that they would keep him through it all.

MacKenzie Gore, Dirty Curveballs. 😨 pic.twitter.com/VX67xFRJ65

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 18, 2023

But the Friars simply could not pass up the opportunity to make the addition of someone like Juan Soto. Manny Machado was breaking down trying to carry the offense all by himself and they were able to make a Cinderella run in the postseason thanks to the trade.

Gore has not forgotten about this moment though. He already detailed in the past how he thought he was going to be a Padre for life and that he cared about the clubhouse more than anything.

Padres' insider Kevin Acee detailed a bit of what to expect in Gore's first start against San Diego since the infamous trade.

The rook, MacKenzie Gore, is COOKING 😳 ♨️

(via @MLB)pic.twitter.com/ltKZ92LiW4

— ESPN (@espn) April 28, 2022

"I want to enjoy what MacKenzie Gore does," said Acee. "I want to see how he's doing, he was devastated to have been traded away from the Padres. He enjoyed being there, he anticipated being there for a long time. I think that Padres fans should wish him well."

(Via The Darren Smith Show)

In nine games with Washington this year, Gore has recorded a solid 3.69 ERA and has a 3-3 record. He will certainly look to show San Diego exactly what they're missing out on.