Padres Power Past Rockies with Sheets and Maldonado Leading the Charge

David Frerker-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres brought the offense in a big way on Friday night, defeating the Colorado Rockies 13-9 at Petco Park. With standout performances from Gavin Sheets and Martín Maldonado, the Padres delivered a balanced attack that kept the Rockies on their heels throughout the game. Gavin Sheets was the offensive star of the night, collecting two doubles and driving in four runs. His key hits came early, including a two-run double in the third inning that helped San Diego jump out to a 5-0 lead. Jackson Merrill also chipped in with a two-RBI double during the same inning, setting the tone for the Padres’ dominance.

Martín Maldonado provided one of the game’s most memorable moments in the sixth inning. After Sheets had already doubled in a run and Jason Heyward followed with an RBI single, Maldonado capped off a five-run inning with a two-out, two-run home run, putting the Padres ahead 10-1. It was a key moment that gave San Diego breathing room before Colorado made a late push. Luis Arraez, Manny Machado, and Merrill each had three hits for the Padres, showcasing the depth and consistency of their lineup. Machado also drove in Fernando Tatis Jr. in the first inning to give San Diego an early lead that they never relinquished.

Randy Vásquez (2-3) pitched six solid innings for the Padres, giving up two earned runs on six hits while striking out five. Robert Suarez earned his 15th save by getting a key double play to end the game after the Rockies made things interesting in the ninth inning.

On the other side, the Rockies continued to struggle. Antonio Senzatela (1-6) gave up four earned runs for the third straight start, and the team’s record dropped to a league-worst 6-32. Despite hitting three home runs—by Michael Toglia, Ryan McMahon, and Jordan Beck—Colorado couldn’t overcome its early deficit. Interestingly, the Rockies are now 0-9 this season in games where they’ve hit two or more home runs.

The Padres and Rockies will face off again on Saturday. San Diego is set to start right-hander Stephen Kolek (1-0, 0.00 ERA), while the Rockies counter with Bradley Blalock (0-1, 8.03 ERA). After Friday’s offensive showcase, fans can expect more fireworks as the series continues.