SAN DIEGO – Blake Snell shined in his first start against his former team. He went out and pitched 6 innings and struck out every hitter in the lineup +3 more finishing with 12 Ks on the game. The game was a pitcher’s dual where both teams struggled to get a run on the board. The Padres had a big fifth inning where small ball was in full effect. The Padres put down three bunts including one by Fernando Tatis Jr. A sacrifice fly by Juan Soto and an infield single scored the Padres only 2 runs. Neither team had much going for them offensively with only 7 hits on the game. The Padres pitching staff continued to deal after Blake Snell’s 6 innings throwing 3 scoreless innings with only one hit given up by Josh Hader who got the save. 

Here are three takeaways from the game: 

Snell Gets Revenge Against Former Team

Blake Snell came out seeking vengeance against his former team and vengeance was indeed served striking out 12 batters including the entire lineup. He tied his season high in strikeouts going 6 innings which was 2/3 longer than his game 5 World Series Appearance as a Ray. That controversial move by Rays manager Kevin Cash was a big reason that he was even dealt to San Diego in the first place. As a Ray it was rare he went over 5 innings in a game. The Padres gave him more freedom to go deeper into games which was shown tonight when he threw 102 pitches. Snell if he hasn’t already proved it is capable of doing deep into games.

Whatever it Takes

The Padres recognized that they have a real issue when it comes to batting in runners in scoring positions. When the Padres had opportunities they turned to small ball and bunting to get the job done. This was a great way for the Padres to get runs on the board at this point in the season. The Padres hope that the bunting can give them some momentum and turn those into real hits rather than bunts. In order for the Padres to be good consistently they will have to hit the ball and can’t always rely on bunts to get where they want to be. 

Bullpen Shoves Again

The Padres bullpen got the job done yet again. Tonight they had to keep a tight lead against the team leading the majors in runs. The bullpen tonight didn’t walk anyone and only allowed one base runner in 3 innings. The bullpen has continued to show consistency as the team is looking for some stability across the board.

The Padres (34-36) will play the Rays (51-23) in the Series Finale tomorrow at 1:10 PST.