Rockies Clinch Thrilling Walk-Off Win Over Padres

Randy Vásquez's strong pitching performance highlights Cactus League matchup

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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In a Cactus League game at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Arizona, the Colorado Rockies defeated the San Diego Padres 3-2 in a thrilling walk-off victory. The game featured standout pitching from the Rockies' Randy Vásquez, who tossed 2⅔ scoreless innings without allowing a hit, as well as key offensive contributions from both teams.

Why it matters

This game provided an early look at the Rockies' and Padres' rosters as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season, with several key players like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. getting playing time before departing for the World Baseball Classic.

The details

The Padres managed just four hits, with Jake Cronenworth, Sung-Mun Song, and Ramón Laureano recording singles and Samad Taylor providing a crucial RBI single in the eighth inning to tie the game at 2-2. On the mound, Rockies pitcher Randy Vásquez stood out with a dominant 2⅔ innings, striking out four batters and walking two. Teammates Ron Marinaccio and Tristan McKenzie had more mixed results, while the Padres' Sean Boyle allowed a walk-off home run to Zac Veen in the eighth inning to end the game.

  • The game took place on Friday, February 28, 2026 at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Arizona.
  • Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. made their final appearances before departing for the World Baseball Classic.

The players

Randy Vásquez

A Rockies pitcher who delivered a strong 2⅔ innings of scoreless, hitless baseball, striking out four batters.

Jake Cronenworth

A Padres second baseman who recorded one of the team's four hits.

Sung-Mun Song

A Padres third baseman who started his second game and is being evaluated for his versatility as the team's regulars depart for the World Baseball Classic.

Manny Machado

A Padres third baseman who contributed a sacrifice fly without a hit in his final appearance before leaving for the World Baseball Classic.

Fernando Tatis Jr.

A Padres outfielder who went 0-for-2 and played four innings in right field before departing for the World Baseball Classic.

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What’s next

The Rockies will send left-hander JP Sears to the mound for his second spring start at 1:10 p.m. Saturday in Peoria against the Seattle Mariners, as the team continues to prepare and assess pitching depth.

The takeaway

This Cactus League matchup between the Rockies and Padres showcased the depth and talent of both teams as they gear up for the upcoming MLB season, with standout performances from players like Randy Vásquez highlighting the competitive nature of spring training.