SACRAMENTO- The Padres take home the rubber match against the Athletics in a 2-1 pitching duel, despite key players out of the lineup.
San Diego (10-3) needed everyone to step up without stars Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrill and utility Jake Cronenworth. Not only did the pitching staff do its part, but the bottom part of the order as well.
Right fielder Oscar Gonzalez and left fielder Jason Heyward filled the void for the regulars today, combining for a 4/8 day and an RBI despite a solid outing from opposing pitcher Osvaldo Bido.
“It’s huge, it shows a lot of guys are contributing,” said shortstop Xander Bogaerts.
Bogaerts was a nightmare for the Athletics pitching staff, finishing his day ⅗ with two runs scored. Bogaerts (.304 BA, 780 OPS) was jumping on pitches early and not letting pitchers get ahead.
“I just find something good to hit early,” said Bogaerts. “I just trust my abilities and I’m just trying to do the best I can to help the team win."
Third baseman Manny Machado (.340 BA, .900 OPS) stayed hot, going ⅔ with two walks and a stolen base. Both Machado and Bogaerts will need to continue to lead the reigns offensively during this stretch without big pieces.
Gavin Sheets brings home a run Xander Bogaerts with a sacrifice fly to center field to put the Padres ahead 2-1 in the 5th#ForTheFaithful pic.twitter.com/egwAssw1I9
— San Diego Strong (@PadresStrong) April 9, 2025
Outside of a rocky second inning starting pitcher Randy Vasquez (1-1, 1.72 ERA) was lights out. Vasquez' weapon today was his sweeper and did a great job pitching to contact and letting his defense work.
Vasquez finished his outing allowing one earned run and one hit in five innings pitched. The Friars bullpen was also untouchable, despite the Athletic’s bats being on fire yesterday.
San Diego’s bullpen combined for zero earned runs, one hit and three strikeouts in four innings pitched. Closer Robert Suarez came in the ninth to shut the door and recorded his sixth save of the season. Suarez is yet to allow an earned run in the 2025 season.
The Padres are the first team in baseball to reach 10 wins and are currently on top of the NL West after winning the series in Sacramento.
The @Padres are the first team to 10 wins this season! 👏 pic.twitter.com/GTj95AhQUm
— MLB (@MLB) April 9, 2025
San Diego will return to Petco Park on Friday to host the Colorado Rockies at 6:40 pm. Nick Pivetta is projected to start.