SAN DIEGO (AP) — In a remarkable display of power and redemption, Luis Rengifo hit a grand slam against the Milwaukee Brewers, the team that released him just seven weeks prior. This pivotal moment contributed to the San Diego Padres' commanding 11-2 victory on Tuesday night, allowing them to clinch a series win against one of baseball's top teams.
Rengifo's grand slam came during the second inning with the bases loaded and two outs. Following a successful challenge by teammate Fernando Tatis Jr. that resulted in a walk, Rengifo seized the opportunity, launching a 1-0 fastball from Brewers pitcher Kyle Harrison into the left-field seats. This marked his third home run of the season and underscored his resurgence since joining the Padres after signing a minor league contract shortly after his release.
Fernando Tatis Jr. also made headlines during the game, hitting a milestone home run that solidified his place in Padres history. Tatis led off the fourth inning with a shot to right field, marking the 164th home run of his career. This achievement moved him ahead of Nate Colbert into sole possession of second place on the franchise's all-time list, trailing only Manny Machado, who has 217 home runs. Tatis has now hit 12 home runs this season, contributing significantly to the Padres' offensive efforts.
In addition to Rengifo's and Tatis' contributions, Luis Campusano added a two-run homer, further extending the Padres' lead. The team is now on a four-game winning streak and has secured 14 victories in their last 18 games, pulling them into a tie with the Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks for the third National League wild-card spot.
On the mound, Walker Buehler delivered a solid performance, combining with two relievers to limit the Brewers to just one run and three hits over six innings. This victory marked Buehler's second win in his last eight starts, improving his record to 7-5 for the season. In contrast, Harrison struggled, giving up eight runs and ten hits, including all three home runs, in just 4 2/3 innings of work.
As the Padres look to complete a three-game sweep against the Brewers, they will send Robbie Ray to the mound for the series finale. Ray, acquired at the trade deadline, holds a record of 10-7 with a 3.24 ERA, and will face off against Brewers right-hander Dustin May, who is 6-7 with a 4.30 ERA. The outcome of this matchup could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
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