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Surging Padres Aim to Sweep Struggling Red Sox in Series Finale
The San Diego Padres are on fire, looking to make it six straight wins as they wrap up their three-game series against the Boston Red Sox this Sunday afternoon. After dominating the Red Sox with a combined score of 20-3 in the first two games, the Padres are set for another strong performance. Let’s break down the key factors behind the Padres’ recent success and what to expect in Sunday’s showdown.
San Diego Padres’ Offensive Surge
The Padres have been relentless at the plate, racking up 20 runs in the first two games of the series. They crushed the Red Sox 9-2 on Friday and followed that with an 11-1 victory on Saturday. This offensive explosion has been fueled by a powerful lineup that has blasted six home runs in just two games, with Jackson Merrill and Manny Machado leading the charge. Machado, especially, was on fire Saturday, hitting two home runs and helping push the team’s record to 9-1 over their last 10 games.
Padres’ Batting Performance
San Diego’s batting lineup is clicking on all cylinders. In Saturday’s game alone, the team notched 16 hits, the most allowed by the Red Sox in a single game this season. This offensive prowess has pushed the Padres to a 46-41 record, marking the first time this season they are five games over .500. Manager Mike Shildt has emphasized the importance of team cohesion and confidence in the lineup, which has been evident in their recent performances.
Pitching Matchup: Matt Waldron vs. Josh Winckowski
Matt Waldron’s Knuckleball Mastery
The Padres are putting their trust in right-hander Matt Waldron to keep the winning streak alive. Waldron, known for his tricky knuckleball, has been rock-solid, not allowing more than two earned runs in his last nine starts, boasting a 1.95 ERA during that stretch. This will be Waldron’s first career appearance against the Red Sox, and with catcher Kyle Higashioka familiar with his unique pitch, the pair will aim to keep Boston’s hitters off balance.
Josh Winckowski’s Versatility
The Red Sox are countering with right-hander Josh Winckowski, who has shown flexibility this season with a 1.69 ERA in three starts and a 4.12 ERA in 10 relief appearances. Winckowski’s only previous appearance against the Padres ended in a save, adding an interesting twist to this pitching matchup. Red Sox manager Alex Cora is hopeful that Winckowski can contain the Padres’ hot bats and help turn things around for Boston.
Red Sox’ Recent Struggles
The Red Sox are in a slump, having lost their last three games and being overwhelmed by the Padres’ offense. Despite a strong lineup, they haven’t been able to match San Diego’s firepower. Manager Alex Cora acknowledged the challenge posed by the Padres’ ability to hit home runs. However, there’s a silver lining in catcher Connor Wong, who brings a 15-game hitting streak into Sunday’s game.
Key Players to Watch
Manny Machado
Manny Machado has been a standout for the Padres, especially in this series against the Red Sox. His two home runs on Saturday highlight his current form and influence on the game. Machado’s performance will be key as the Padres aim to complete the sweep.
Connor Wong
For the Red Sox, Connor Wong’s 15-game hitting streak is a bright spot during a tough stretch. Wong’s ability to get on base and maintain his streak will be crucial for Boston’s hopes of avoiding a sweep in the series finale.
Conclusion
The San Diego Padres are riding a wave of momentum with their five-game winning streak and are looking to sweep the series against the Boston Red Sox. With Matt Waldron on the mound and their offense firing on all cylinders, the Padres are well-positioned for another victory. However, the Red Sox, led by Josh Winckowski and buoyed by Connor Wong’s hitting streak, will be determined to bounce back and avoid a sweep. Sunday’s game promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the series.
