On July 5, 2024, in San Diego, California, Manny Machado hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the ninth inning, leading the San Diego Padres to a 10-8 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks made a remarkable comeback in the top of the ninth inning after being down 7-2. Alek Thomas hit a grand slam, and pinch-hitter Randal Grichuk followed with a two-run homer, giving the Diamondbacks a one-run lead.
Unfortunately for the Diamondbacks, their closer Paul Sewald was unable to secure the win as Jurickson Profar hit a game-tying homer, and Jake Cronenworth drew a walk before Machado sealed the victory with his two-run homer. The Padres’ Stephen Kolek earned the win after getting the final out in the top of the ninth.
The Padres took the lead earlier in the game with a four-run fourth inning, highlighted by Jackson Merrill’s two-run triple and David Peralta’s RBI double. Kyle Higashioka added to the lead with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Both starting pitchers, Slade Cecconi for the Diamondbacks and Randy Vasquez for the Padres, did not factor into the decision. Cecconi pitched 4 2/3 innings, allowing five runs, while Vasquez went 6 1/3 innings, giving up two runs.
The game was played in front of a record-breaking crowd of 47,171 fans at Petco Park, with the Padres winning for the 12th time in their last 15 games.
Overall, it was an exciting game filled with twists and turns, culminating in Manny Machado’s clutch home run to secure the Padres’ victory. The team’s resilience and ability to come back from behind showcased their determination and teamwork, delighting the home crowd and solidifying their position as a strong contender in the league.