San Francisco Rivalry
The I-5 rivalry between the Dodgers and Padres has intensified in the 2020s with three postseason meetings.
The Dodgers–Padres rivalry is a Major League Baseball (MLB) National League division rivalry between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres. The Dodgers and Padres are both members of the National League (NL) West Division. It is occasionally called the I-5 rivalry because Los Angeles and San Diego lie approximately 120 miles apart along Interstate 5.
Quick Facts
- Origin year
- 1880s
Lore & Background
The rivalry began when the Padres joined the National League West Division. The Dodgers have traditionally been the much more successful team, though most of the animosity is directed against LA by Padres fans, who embrace the 'Beat LA' chant. Dodgers fans have often said they do not view the Padres as a true rival, reserving that honor for the San Francisco Giants, though this view may have changed following the Padres' aggressive roster moves since 2020. In the 2020s, both teams bolstered their rosters. The Dodgers swept the Padres in the 2020 NLDS, the Padres knocked the Dodgers out of the 2022 NLDS, and the Dodgers defeated the Padres in five games in the 2024 NLDS. The Dodgers won the World Series after eliminating the Padres in both 2020 and 2024.
Reader's Guide
As of the 2024 season, the Dodgers lead the rivalry 532–431–1 in the regular season and 7–5 in postseason play. The Dodgers have won 5 World Series championships since the Padres came into existence in 1969; the Padres are still yet to win a title, coming closest in 1984 (losing 4 games to 1 against the Detroit Tigers) and 1998 (swept by the New York Yankees). Since 1969, the Dodgers also lead in National League Pennants (10 vs. 2) and Divisional titles (23 vs. 5).
Did You Know?
- The first meeting between the two teams occurred on April 15, 1969, at Dodger Stadium, with the Dodgers winning 14–0.
- The 4+1 Game on September 18, 2006, saw the Dodgers hit four consecutive home runs in the ninth inning to tie the game, then win 11–10 on a Nomar Garciaparra walk-off home run.
- In 1996, the Padres swept the Dodgers in the final series of the season at Dodger Stadium to win the NL West, with Chris Gwynn delivering the game-winning runs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did this rivalry originate?
The conflict began in New York City during 1890 before the teams eventually moved west together. It started as a clash between Manhattan and Brooklyn-based clubs prior to their relocation.
What division do they play in now?
Both franchises currently compete within the National League West against one another regularly. This alignment ensures frequent matchups throughout the modern baseball season.
Why is the rivalry so intense today?
Fans consider it one of the most storied and continuous competitions found anywhere in Major League Baseball. The shared history and geographic closeness keep the competition fierce year after year.
When did they move to California?
Both teams relocated from New York to their current West Coast homes simultaneously during 1958. This simultaneous move shifted the focus of their long-standing feud from the East to California.
Is the rivalry still active?
Yes, this historic competition remains fully active and continues to draw significant attention from fans nationwide. It stands as one of the longest-running rivalries since their westward migration.
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