Ryan O'Hearn and Jose Iglesias led a 9th-inning comeback as the Padres stunned the Diamondbacks 3-2 on Aug. 7. Relive the thrilling finish in the NL West.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you thought it was over, the Friars did it again. Down to their final outs against the Diamondbacks, the Padres staged a magnificent ninth-inning comeback, capped by a Ryan O'Hearn solo shot and a go-ahead single from Jose Iglesias to steal a 3-2 victory at Chase Field. It was a heart-stopping win that keeps the pressure squarely on the Dodgers in a tightening NL West race.
Down to their final outs, Ryan O'Hearn's game-tying 14th homer set the stage for Jose Iglesias's go-ahead RBI single, snatching a 3-2 victory from the jaws of defeat.
The Padres entered the top of the ninth trailing 2-1, and things looked bleak. But Xander Bogaerts started the rally with his 25th double of the season, a laser that sparked life into the dugout. Then came Ryan O'Hearn, who blasted his 14th home run of the year to tie the game and silence the Arizona crowd. With the momentum shifted, Jose Iglesias stepped up and delivered the decisive blow—a clutch RBI single that scored Bogaerts and put the Padres ahead for good. It was a testament to the team's never-say-die attitude, with key relief work from Jake Woodford and Kyle Backhus keeping them within striking distance all night.
A dramatic win like this often relies on a steady bullpen, and the front office is making moves to ensure it stays that way. Ahead of the series, the team recalled right-handed reliever Sean Reynolds from Triple-A El Paso, sending lefty JP Sears down in a corresponding move. With Michael King still on the IL and Jhony Brito lost for the season, the need for fresh, effective arms is critical. The move for Reynolds is a clear signal that management is focused on shoring up any potential weakness for the final stretch of the season.
The push for the postseason also means making tough decisions. The Padres officially parted ways with veteran catcher Martín Maldonado, releasing him after he was designated for assignment. The 38-year-old provided veteran leadership but struggled at the plate, hitting just .204. This move formally hands the keys to newly acquired Freddy Fermin as the primary backstop. In another bit of roster housekeeping, utility man Tyler Wade was outrighted to El Paso. These moves streamline the roster, prioritizing players who can make the biggest impact down the stretch.
Last night's incredible comeback was more than just one win; it was a statement. This team has the fight and the front office is making the aggressive moves necessary to support a deep playoff run. Every game counts, and with the Dodgers still in their sights, the intensity is only going to ramp up. Hold on tight, Padres fans—this is going to be a wild ride to the finish line.
