Padres News: Michael Wacha Erased Past History against Braves in Saturday's Win

Atlanta used to be his Kryptonite... not anymore.

Through all of the different areas in which the San Diego Padres have fluctuated in to start off their 2023 campaign, the starting pitching staff has been pretty consistent. They've been able to keep opposing runners from scoring for the most part and even though the bullpen hasn't always held on to the lead, they start off the game strong for the team.

Michael Wacha on the other hand has to decided to take it to another level. In his season debut against the Rockies, he showed us just a sneak peak of what to expect with two strikeouts and four runs allowed.

However, he flipped the switch in Saturday night's win over the Atlanta Braves as he vastly improved those numbers to 10 strikeouts and no runs at all allowed. He was one of the most important players in that victory and, as Bally Sports San Diego pointed out, Wacha hasn't seen much success against these batters in the past.

Wacha was dealin🔥#BringTheGold | @Padres pic.twitter.com/56kAQY7RKQ

— Bally Sports San Diego (@BallySportsSD) April 9, 2023

"He came into this 0-4 in eight appearances against the Braves. So taking that on mentally and understanding he needs a nice outing for his club, that is exactly what he did. He felt like 'This is on my shoulders, I'm going to show my team not only did I win the first game but I'm going to win the second game in a place that I haven't really done very well."

(Via Bally Sports San Diego)

The 31-year-old has bounced around numerous teams these past few years and he looks to solidify a role and home in San Diego. This type of production and mental toughness will certainly garner him that.