San Francisco Edges San Diego 3-2

Giants take series opener in close game against Padres

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:18am

The San Francisco Giants defeated the San Diego Padres 3-2 in the first game of their series. The Giants scored three runs, led by home runs from Bader and Bailey, while the Padres managed two runs, including a homer from Merrill.

Why it matters

This win gives the Giants an early advantage in the series against their NL West division rival Padres, as both teams look to improve their playoff positioning in the second half of the season.

The details

The Giants jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, with Bader and Bailey hitting solo home runs. The Padres tried to mount a comeback, scoring two runs including a homer from Merrill, but ultimately fell short.

  • The game was played on March 31, 2026.

The players

Adames

Shortstop for the San Francisco Giants.

Devers

Designated hitter for the San Francisco Giants.

Ramos

Left fielder for the San Francisco Giants.

Arraez

Second baseman for the San Francisco Giants.

Chapman

Third baseman for the San Francisco Giants.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough game against a division rival, but the guys really battled and came through with some big hits when we needed them.”

— Gabe Kapler, Manager, San Francisco Giants

What’s next

The two teams will play the second game of their series on April 1, 2026.

The takeaway

This close victory for the Giants keeps them in the hunt for the NL West division title, while the Padres will look to bounce back in the next game of the series.