SAN DIEGO – Jake Cronenworth became the hero of the night, delivering a clutch walk-off single in the 10th inning to propel the San Diego Padres to a 3-2 victory over the Texas Rangers. The electrifying game, played on July 4th in front of a roaring crowd of 45,114 at Petco Park, marked the start of a crucial 10-game homestand for the Padres leading into the All-Star break.
Cronenworth's Clutch Hit Secures the Win
With the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the 10th, Cronenworth stepped up to the plate against Rangers pitcher Robert Garcia. He delivered a sharp single to right field, driving in automatic runner Jackson Merrill and sending the Padres faithful into a frenzy. Cronenworth's teammates mobbed him near second base, celebrating his fifth career walk-off hit.
The inning began with an intentional walk to Manny Machado, followed by a Luis Arraez strikeout. Gavin Sheets then singled to center, loading the bases. A concerning moment occurred when Xander Bogaerts injured himself swinging and had to leave the game, replaced by Bryce Johnson, who subsequently struck out.
Machado's Power and Early Rangers Lead
Manny Machado showcased his power earlier in the game, launching a 440-foot solo home run in the fourth inning, bringing the Padres within one run. Machado's performance was particularly significant as he approaches his 2,000th career hit and continues his All-Star season. The Rangers initially took the lead in the third inning when Marcus Semien doubled to right-center, driving in Josh Smith and Corey Seager after a defensive miscue by Fernando Tatis Jr.
Padres Rally and Tatis's Triple
The Padres tied the game in the sixth inning after Tatis tripled, and Arraez singled to bring him home. Despite loading the bases, they only managed to score one run. Ultimately, Adrian Morejon earned the win for the Padres. The game lasted 3 hours and 8 minutes and provided a thrilling Independence Day celebration for San Diego fans.
With this win, the Padres look to build momentum as they continue their homestand, hoping to solidify their position heading into the All-Star break.