In an exciting development for both sports fans and fantasy enthusiasts, PrizePicks has officially partnered with the San Diego Padres, marking its first team partnership in the state of California. The deal solidifies PrizePicks’ presence in one of the largest and most engaged sports markets in the United States, despite California’s ongoing uncertainty regarding the legalization of sports betting.

A groundbreaking partnership for PrizePicks and the Padres:

The collaboration between PrizePicks and the Padres is a significant step for the daily fantasy sports operator. PrizePicks, known as the largest daily fantasy sports provider in North America, has taken a prominent step by aligning with a team from Major League Baseball. As part of the deal, PrizePicks will have substantial branding exposure throughout Petco Park, the Padres’ home stadium. This includes LED signage in the outfield and banner displays along the ballpark’s concourses, ensuring that fans experience PrizePicks’ presence throughout game days.

This partnership is particularly noteworthy as it represents a strategic effort to engage with baseball fans across California and nationwide. Mike Quigley, Chief Marketing Officer of PrizePicks, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating in the company’s press release, “The Padres are one of the most dynamic franchises in Major League Baseball, and we’re proud to be part of their journey. PrizePicks players and Padres fans share a deep passion for the game, and we look forward to creating new ways to engage and connect with fans both in San Diego and across the country.”

The collaboration extends beyond in-stadium branding. PrizePicks will also be featured across the Padres’ digital platforms, including banner advertisements on Padres.com and pregame commercial reads on Padres.TV during the regular season. These efforts will further amplify the company’s visibility, allowing it to connect with fans both in the stadium and online.

To create even more excitement, PrizePicks is rolling out a special promotion tied to the Padres’ performance on the field. Throughout the 2025 MLB season, whenever the Padres score 10 or more runs in a home game, fans will have the chance to enter a text-to-win contest. The grand prize includes a $10,000 free PrizePicks lineup, along with tickets to a future Padres game, allowing the lucky winners to enjoy the action live at Petco Park.

PrizePicks and California’s legal landscape:

As PrizePicks expands its footprint in California, the company continues to navigate the uncertain legal environment surrounding daily fantasy sports in the state. California remains the largest U.S. market without legal sports betting, and the state attorney general’s office has been reviewing whether pick’em-style fantasy games, like those offered by PrizePicks, constitute illegal gambling. However, PrizePicks has responded to these inquiries by providing evidence that its fantasy sports contests are skill-based, which aligns with the state’s gaming laws that permit games of skill but not those of chance.

Despite these legal challenges, PrizePicks has experienced significant growth in California. In fact, the company has seen a massive increase in mobile app downloads, with figures showing a year-over-year rise of more than 100% through the NFL season. The expansion in California is part of a broader strategy to increase market share across the country as daily fantasy sports continues to grow in popularity.

While PrizePicks’ collaboration with the Padres marks an exciting chapter for the brand, the future of sports betting in California remains in flux. Tribal gaming leaders in the state have expressed concerns about the impact of fantasy sports on their exclusive rights to Class III gaming. Efforts to revive discussions on legalizing sports betting in California have begun in 2025, with talks focused on creating a framework that would give tribal governments control over the online market.

In the meantime, PrizePicks continues to focus on delivering responsible gaming initiatives. In 2025, the company received accreditation from the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) for its responsible gaming practices, becoming the first fantasy sports operator to earn this distinction. This commitment to responsible gaming aligns with PrizePicks’ broader efforts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for its users.