German Marquez's strong start helps Padres shut out Pirates

Padres win third straight, seventh in a row at PNC Park

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:35am

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A fragmented, abstract painting depicting a baseball game between the San Diego Padres and Pittsburgh Pirates, with the players and field elements broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a cubist style, using the official team colors.The Padres' offense and German Marquez's pitching combined to shut out the Pirates in a fractured, geometric cubist interpretation of the game.San Diego Today

The San Diego Padres defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-0 on Monday night, with starting pitcher German Marquez throwing five shutout innings and the Padres' offense providing timely hitting to back him up. Nick Castellanos and Jake Cronenworth each had two hits and an RBI for the Padres, who won their third game in a row and seventh straight at PNC Park.

Why it matters

The Padres' victory extends their recent dominance over the Pirates at PNC Park and keeps them in the hunt in the competitive National League West division. German Marquez's strong outing also continues to build confidence in the Padres' starting rotation.

The details

German Marquez (1-1) threw five shutout innings, allowing six hits and one walk while striking out four on 92 pitches. He was supported by scoreless outings from relievers Ron Marinaccio and David Morgan. Nick Castellanos and Jake Cronenworth each had two hits, including a double and an RBI, to lead the Padres' offense. Pittsburgh starter Bubba Chandler (0-1) exited the game after 4 1/3 innings, giving up three runs on five hits.

  • The game was played on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • Marquez improved to 7-1 in eight career starts against the Pirates.

The players

German Marquez

The Padres' starting pitcher, who threw five shutout innings and earned the win.

Nick Castellanos

The Padres' outfielder, who had two hits including a double and an RBI.

Jake Cronenworth

The Padres' infielder, who had two hits including a double and an RBI.

Bubba Chandler

The Pirates' starting pitcher, who exited the game after 4 1/3 innings, giving up three runs on five hits.

Yohan Ramirez

The Pirates' relief pitcher who entered the game after Chandler.

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What they’re saying

“German Marquez continues to be a thorn in the side of the Pirates. His ability to limit damage and keep his team in the game was crucial to this victory.”

— Bob Nightengale, Baseball Columnist

What’s next

The Padres and Pirates will continue their series on Tuesday night at PNC Park.

The takeaway

The Padres' victory showcases their depth and resilience, as they were able to overcome a solid start by the Pirates' young pitcher Bubba Chandler. German Marquez's strong outing also demonstrates the Padres' strength in their starting rotation, which will be crucial as they look to contend in the NL West.