Diamondbacks Rally to Defeat Padres

PHOENIX: In a Major League Baseball (MLB) showdown at Chase Field on Saturday, the Arizona Diamondbacks mounted a stunning ninth-inning comeback, scoring five runs to clinch an 8-7 victory over the San Diego Padres. Josh Naylor’s ground ball to first base drove in Geraldo Perdomo for the winning run.

The Padres held a 7-3 advantage heading into the ninth. Pavin Smith, Gabriel Moreno, and Alek Thomas initiated the rally with consecutive singles against Padres’ closer Robert Suarez (1-2), who was brought in despite it not being a save situation. Ketel Marte then managed an infield hit, plating a run and setting the stage for Perdomo, who drove a ball into the right-field corner, clearing the bases.

Adrian Morejon entered the game in relief, and Naylor promptly grounded to first on the initial pitch. Perdomo’s speed allowed him to narrowly beat the throw home.

Earlier in the game, Corbin Carroll struck out, but Marte secured another infield hit, bringing in a run. Perdomo then tripled to the right-field corner, driving in three runs, leading to Naylor’s game-winning ground ball. The first baseman’s attempt to throw out Perdomo at home was unsuccessful.

Eugenio Suarez contributed a three-run home run for the D-backs, who have now extended their winning streak to five games. Fernando Tatis Jr.’s bases-loaded single and Manny Machado’s two-run double against Ryan Thompson propelled San Diego to a 5-3 lead during a four-run seventh inning.

Diamondbacks’ starting pitcher Zac Gallen pitched six and one-third innings, surrendering four runs on six hits, issuing four walks, and recording six strikeouts. Gavin Sheets initiated the scoring with a home run in the second inning, providing his team with a 1-0 lead.

Naylor’s single and Suarez’s 410-foot home run in the fourth inning had previously put the D-backs ahead 3-1. Suarez’s home run marks his 20th of the season, tying him with teammate Corbin Carroll for second-most in the NL.

Padres’ starter Ryan Bergert pitched five innings, allowing three runs on three hits and two walks.

The Padres have suffered defeats in four of their last five contests.