The San Diego Padres jump to an early lead and defeat the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-4 on Tuesday at Chase Field. San Diego scores three runs in both the first and second innings, building an advantage quickly and carrying it through the rest of the game. Manny Machado has a four-RBI performance with three hits, matching his season high for runs batted in. Randy Vásquez delivers one of his strongest starts of the season, pitching six scoreless innings. Jackson Merrill adds three hits and two RBIs, while Jake Cronenworth also records three hits. The Padres hold the Diamondbacks at arm’s reach after the initial burst and withstand a late hiccup to secure their ninth win in 11 games.
With the victory, San Diego moves closer in the National League wild-card race, closing to one game behind Arizona for the third and final NL wild-card playoff spot. The win comes as both teams remain in the thick of the postseason chase.
