In a remarkable turn of events, Jeremiah Estrada has transformed from a waiver claim into a household name with the San Diego Padres, marking a year of incredible growth and achievement. Just a year ago, the 26-year-old right-hander was trying to impress his new team during spring training, aiming to secure a spot on the Major League Baseball roster. Fast forward to today, and he’s not only a mainstay in the Padres bullpen but also a fan favorite, with his name and number 56 proudly displayed on jerseys across San Diego.
Estrada’s journey began when he was called up to the major leagues on April 26, 2024, after initially not making the Padres’ opening day roster. He quickly made a name for himself, setting an MLB record for consecutive strikeouts with 13 in a row, a feat that catapulted him into the national spotlight. His impressive performance helped the Padres advance to the National League Division Series, where he pitched in four of the team's seven playoff games, becoming the first player from a desert high school to ever participate in an MLB postseason game.
Reflecting on his journey, Estrada shared, "It's kind of wild, I remember the year I had (in 2022), made my major league debut with the Cubs and during that postseason I was sitting around in the desert with everyone and we were watching the Dodgers play in the playoffs against the Padres actually, and I remember just thinking how crazy the atmosphere was. And now it's like I'm the guy that they're watching go against the Dodgers in the playoffs. And I know how the whole desert is, all Dodgers fans, but it's pretty gnarly. It was an absolutely insane atmosphere, and I was blessed to be a part of it."
Estrada's breakout year included a string of impressive performances where he struck out five consecutive batters in games against the Cincinnati Reds and New York Yankees. On May 28, 2024, he achieved the record-breaking moment by striking out the Miami Marlins' Jake Burger on a splitter, setting the new standard at 13 consecutive strikeouts. After the game, he celebrated with a Gatorade shower from his teammates, solidifying his place in MLB history.
In the regular season, Estrada pitched in 64 games, finishing with a record of 6-3, one save, and an impressive ERA of 2.95. He struck out 94 batters while walking 23 in 61.0 innings pitched. His playoff performance was equally stellar, as he pitched 4.1 scoreless innings, further demonstrating his capability and importance to the team.
As he entered this year’s spring training, Estrada found himself in a different mindset. With his role secured, he was focused on defining his position within the team and continuing to improve. He stated, "Last spring I was just trying to show this new team who I was and what I was capable of and I think I did a good job at that. This spring I have a similar mindset, but I don't have to stress out so much about getting my name out there."
Estrada's commitment to his craft was evident as he chose to stay in San Diego during the offseason, working diligently at the team facility. He emphasized the importance of hard work, stating, "At the end of the day, though, I still treat every day like my job is on the line, like someone's coming after my job, so I'm not feeling satisfied and just out here chilling. It's about the work and the sacrifice."
His spring training performance has been solid, with one challenging outing, allowing six hits and four earned runs over six innings, resulting in a 6.00 ERA. Despite this, he has struck out nine batters and walked only one, showcasing his potential as the season approaches.
Estrada's connection with the fans has also grown. He often sees fans wearing his jersey around town and takes the time to interact with them, signing baseballs and creating memorable moments. "I mean that's pretty crazy, right? And just being me, I like to interact with fans, so I always have some baseballs in my car, and I'll pull over and sign one and give it to the person, and they'll be like 'Oh man, that's Jeremiah!'" he shared.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Estrada is optimistic and excited about the Padres' potential. He described the team as a family, reminiscent of his championship-winning days at Palm Desert High School. "Last year was a journey and I do feel like this is a family. We're all brothers, ride-or-die for each other just like back in those days (at Palm Desert), and that allows you to play well but also have fun and enjoy it together," he said.
As the Padres gear up for the upcoming season, Estrada is committed to showing fans what he can do and contributing to the team's ultimate goal of winning the World Series. He recognizes the transient nature of baseball and aims to enjoy every moment. "It is a business, and this is my job, but at the end of the day, you know baseball doesn't last forever so you have to enjoy it while it's happening, and that's what I'm trying to do," he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Padres are preparing for their Opening Day on March 27, 2025, against the Atlanta Braves, with gates opening at 11 a.m. and the first pitch set for 1:10 p.m. This will be a significant matchup, marking the sixth time the two teams have opened a season against each other, and the first since 1994. Right-handed pitcher Michael King is expected to take the mound, and fans can look forward to a pregame ceremony featuring performances by local artists and a ceremonial first pitch by Dorothy Gee from the popular Bucket List Family.
As fans gear up for the season, they can also anticipate a block party on March 29, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., featuring local vendors and live music, creating a festive atmosphere ahead of the game.
With the excitement building, the San Diego Padres are ready to make a statement in the 2025 season, with Jeremiah Estrada leading the charge as a key player to watch.
