Unexpected:D-backs bows down to defeat after San Diego emerged…

Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jake Cronenworth hit back-to-back home runs, while Dylan Cease pitched effectively for 6 2/3 innings, helping the San Diego Padres secure their third straight win by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 7-1 on Friday evening. Manny Machado also chipped in with a two-run homer, and Cronenworth had an impressive game with three extra-base hits, including two doubles. The Padres showcased a potent offense, coinciding with rumors of potentially acquiring Luis Arráez, a two-time batting champion, from the Marlins.

Padres manager Mike Shildt voiced his enthusiasm for the potential addition of Arráez to the team, stressing the importance of bolstering the offense and adding a left-handed batter for lineup balance. However, Shildt clarified that no decisions have been made yet. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks faced ongoing challenges in series openers, extending their losing streak to 10 consecutive series openers since their opening day victory against the Colorado Rockies.

Despite a strong start by D-backs pitcher Slade Cecconi, who retired the first nine batters he faced, he encountered difficulties in the fourth inning. The Padres seized the opportunity, with Jurickson Profar drawing a walk followed by Tatis’ seventh homer of the season. Cronenworth then contributed another homer, extending the Padres’ lead to 3-0. Rookie Jackson Merrill ended his 0-for-20 slump with an RBI double, further solidifying the Padres’ advantage at 4-0.

Although Cronenworth struggled in the 2023 season, he has bounced back strongly in the first month of this season, reminiscent of his All-Star performances in 2021 and 2022. Currently boasting a batting average of .279 with six home runs and 25 RBIs, he’s regained his form at the plate.

Cronenworth continued his impressive streak with a second consecutive game featuring a home run, following his grand slam in the Padres’ 6-2 victory over the Reds on Wednesday.

Manager Shildt commended Cronenworth’s performance, emphasizing his sound approach and swing, which enable him to hit effectively to all parts of the field without overexerting. Conversely, Cecconi struggled, unable to pitch beyond the fifth inning, conceding six runs over 4 1/3 innings.

The Padres’ trio of home runs provided crucial support for Cease (4-2), who delivered a strong performance, allowing only one run on three hits while striking out eight batters, with no walks issued. Machado further extended the lead to 7-0 in the fifth inning with a two-run homer to left center off reliever Matt Bowman, with the ball exiting his bat at a speed of 111.7 mph.