Manny Machado's late homer wasn't enough as the Padres fell 9-7 to the Cardinals on July 27, 2025. See how pitching struggles cost them the series win.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a day of 'almosts' for the San Diego Padres. Almost a heroic comeback, almost enough offense, and almost a series win. Despite a late-game, two-run homer from Manny Machado that electrified the Friar faithful, the Padres couldn't overcome a shaky pitching performance, falling 9-7 to the St. Louis Cardinals and dropping the final game of the series.
Manny Machado continues to lead the charge with a .294 average, 19 home runs, and 63 RBIs on the season.
Sunday's game was a classic slugfest that ultimately tilted in the Cardinals' favor. Starter Stephen Kolek struggled to find his rhythm early, putting the Padres in a hole they'd spend all afternoon trying to climb out of. The Cardinals played fundamental baseball, with a leadoff walk and stolen base by Victor Scott setting the table for their offense. While the Padres' bats were alive, every time they clawed back, the pitching staff gave up more ground. The biggest spark came from Manny Machado, whose 19th home run of the year was a no-doubter to right-center, pulling the team within two. But the comeback stalled there, as the bullpen couldn't slam the door.
The front office clearly sees the same thing the fans do: the bullpen needs a boost. In response to the recent struggles, the Padres announced the selection of left-handed pitcher Kyle McGrath from Double-A San Antonio. McGrath, who will wear number 38, is being thrown into the fire with the hope that he can provide a steady arm in high-leverage situations. It's a significant jump from Double-A, but it's a move the team feels is necessary to shore up a critical area of weakness.
With the dust settled in St. Louis, the loss drops the Padres to 56-49 on the year. They remain firmly in second place in the NL West, but the gap is significant, sitting five games behind the division-leading Dodgers. Every game from here on out is crucial, especially as the calendar flips closer to August. While the loss stings, Manny Machado's continued excellence remains a massive bright spot and the engine of this offense.
As the Padres head home from St. Louis, the mission is clear: find consistency on the mound. The offense has proven it can hang with anyone, but championships are won with pitching. With Kyle McGrath joining the fold and a tough stretch of games ahead, the team will need to right the ship quickly to keep pace in the competitive NL West.
