Jackson Merrill Lifts Padres to Series Win Over Red Sox

Padres rally from early 4-0 deficit to claim series victory in Boston

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:35am

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Jackson Merrill hit a go-ahead solo home run in the eighth inning to lift the visiting San Diego Padres to an 8-6 win over the Boston Red Sox, clinching the series victory. Merrill went 3-for-5 with two RBIs and three runs scored, while Manny Machado added a three-run homer for the Padres, who erased an early 4-0 deficit.

Why it matters

The Padres' comeback win over the Red Sox showcases their offensive firepower and resilience, as they were able to overcome an early deficit on the road against a tough AL East opponent. This series victory could provide momentum for San Diego as they look to compete in the highly competitive NL West division.

The details

The Red Sox jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the third inning, highlighted by RBI doubles from Jarren Duran and Masataka Yoshida. But the Padres chipped away, scoring three runs in the fourth and tying the game at 6-6 in the seventh on back-to-back doubles from Wilyer Abreu and Yoshida. Merrill then delivered the decisive blow with his solo shot in the eighth, and the Padres added an insurance run in the ninth to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 6, 2026.
  • Merrill's go-ahead home run came in the eighth inning.

The players

Jackson Merrill

A 24-year-old outfielder for the San Diego Padres who went 3-for-5 with a go-ahead home run in the eighth inning to lead his team to victory.

Manny Machado

The Padres' star third baseman who hit a three-run homer as part of a 2-for-4 day at the plate.

Wilyer Abreu

The Red Sox outfielder who went 2-for-5 with a double, triple, RBI and two runs scored.

Masataka Yoshida

Boston's designated hitter who had a 3-for-4 day with two doubles and three RBIs.

Ranger Suarez

The Red Sox starting pitcher who allowed four runs over four innings.

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What they’re saying

“We showed a lot of fight to come back from that early deficit. Merrill's homer was a huge momentum shift for us.”

— Manny Machado, Padres Third Baseman

What’s next

The Padres will look to build on this series win as they continue their road trip, facing the New York Mets next. The Red Sox, meanwhile, will try to bounce back at home against the Tampa Bay Rays.

The takeaway

The Padres' comeback victory showcases their offensive firepower and resilience, as they were able to overcome an early four-run deficit on the road against a tough Red Sox team. This series win could provide valuable momentum for San Diego as they look to compete in the highly competitive NL West division.