Gavin Sheets' 9th-inning homer lifts the Padres over the Reds 6-4 on June 29, 2025. Forrest Wall also homered twice in the dramatic comeback win. Read more!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when it looked like the Padres were heading for a tough loss in Cincinnati, Gavin Sheets flipped the script. Sheets crushed a go-ahead, three-run homer in the top of the ninth inning, powering the Padres to a thrilling 6-4 victory over the Reds and reminding everyone that this team fights to the final out.
With one swing in the top of the ninth, Gavin Sheets turned a looming 4-3 deficit into an electrifying 6-4 lead.
Before Sheets played hero, Forrest Wall was the entire offense. The left fielder single-handedly kept the Friars in the game with a pair of home runs, a solo shot in the third and a two-run blast in the seventh. His four RBIs were crucial, setting the stage for the ninth-inning drama. Despite a solid outing from starter Tyler Kolek (5.2 IP, 3 ER), the Padres trailed late. But the offense came alive at the perfect moment, culminating in Sheets' towering shot that secured a massive series win and moved the team to 45-37 on the season.
The good news wasn't limited to the field. In a huge development for the pitching staff, ace Yu Darvish threw a simulated game in Cincinnati as he works his way back from right elbow inflammation. Manager Mike Shildt reported that Darvish 'felt good' and is on track for a potential return to the rotation in early July. Getting a healthy and effective Darvish back for the second-half push would be the biggest trade deadline acquisition the Padres could hope for, providing a massive boost to their championship aspirations.
As one key player gets closer to returning, another heads to the injured list. The Padres placed right-hander Ryan Bergert on the 15-day IL with a right forearm contusion after he was hit by a line drive. In his place, the team recalled righty Sean Reynolds from Triple-A El Paso to add a fresh arm to the bullpen. These moves come on the heels of the team officially releasing veteran Jason Heyward last week, a clear signal that the front office is committed to its younger outfielders and focused on building a flexible, dynamic roster for the stretch run.
This wasn't just a win; it was a statement. A gutsy, come-from-behind victory on the road is exactly the kind of momentum-builder the Padres need as they navigate the tough NL Wild Card race. With Darvish's return on the horizon and the offense showing it can strike at any moment, the Friars are proving they have the resilience and firepower to make some serious noise this summer. Now, it's time to carry this energy forward and keep stacking up the wins.
