Jackson Merrill hit a solo homer in the eighth inning to give the San Diego Padres the lead as they rallied from a four-run deficit to defeat the Boston Red Sox 8-6 on Sunday. The win sent the Red Sox to their seventh loss in their last eight games.
Key Performances
Merrill had three hits in the game, including the go-ahead homer in the eighth inning. Manny Machado also contributed significantly with a three-run homer, while Xander Bogaerts, the former Red Sox shortstop, added three hits for the Padres.
For Boston, the team took an early lead, scoring four runs in the third inning, but struggled to hold on. Masataka Yoshida, who had started the season with an 0-for-10 slump, broke out with a two-run double in the seventh to tie the game. Wilyer Abreu also had three hits for the Red Sox in the loss.
Game Recap
San Diego quickly responded to Boston’s four-run third inning by scoring three runs in the fourth. Machado’s pickoff attempt error allowed runners to get into scoring position, which the Padres capitalized on. Machado then gave the Padres a 6-4 lead in the fifth with his first homer of the season.
In the seventh, Yoshida’s two-run double tied the game, but it was Merrill’s homer in the eighth that proved to be the difference. The Padres added insurance in the ninth, and Mason Miller closed out the game with his fourth save.
Pitching Summary
Padres starter Walker Buehler, who spent part of last season in Boston, was pulled with two outs in the third inning after giving up four runs. Jeremiah Estrada (1-1) earned the win after pitching a perfect eighth inning.
On the other hand, Red Sox pitcher Tyler Uberstine (0-1) took the loss in his major league debut. He allowed Merrill’s go-ahead homer and two other hits, along with a walk, in 2 2/3 innings of work.
Upcoming Games
The Padres will head to Pittsburgh to start a three-game series against the Pirates. In the opener, right-hander Germán Márquez (0-1) will face Pirates righty Bubba Chandler (0-0).
Meanwhile, Boston will stay at home for a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Right-hander Brayan Bello (0-1) will take the mound for the Red Sox against Brewers’ ace Brandon Woodruff (1-0) on Monday night.
