Jake Cronenworth homers to lead Padres past Pirates

Padres bounce back with 8-2 victory over host Pirates

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:10am

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of a baseball game, with players' forms dissolving into bold, gestural brushstrokes.The Padres' offensive explosion, led by Jake Cronenworth's home run, overpowered the Pirates in a high-energy victory.San Diego Today

Nick Castellanos drove in two runs and Jake Cronenworth hit his first homer of the season to lead the San Diego Padres to an 8-2 victory over the host Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday afternoon. Michael King pitched six innings and allowed two runs on four hits and three walks for the Padres, who secured their fourth win in their past five games.

Why it matters

The Padres' win helps them maintain their position in the competitive National League West division race, while the Pirates' loss continues their struggles to find consistent success in the early part of the season.

The details

Padres starter Michael King (1-1) pitched six innings and allowed two runs on four hits and three walks, striking out four. In the seventh inning, the Padres broke the game open with four runs, capitalizing on a pair of Pittsburgh errors. Luis Campusano and Fernando Tatis Jr. each drove in a run in that frame, with Tatis Jr. later scoring on a double steal.

  • The game was played on Wednesday afternoon, April 9, 2026.

The players

Jake Cronenworth

A Padres infielder who hit a home run to extend San Diego's lead in the game.

Nick Castellanos

A Padres outfielder who drove in two runs to help lead his team to victory.

Michael King

The Padres starting pitcher who threw six innings, allowing two runs on four hits and three walks.

Mitch Keller

The Pirates starting pitcher who tossed six scoreless innings, allowing three hits and one walk while striking out four.

Nick Yorke

A Pirates infielder who led the team at the plate with three of their six hits.

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The takeaway

Despite Mitch Keller's strong pitching performance for the Pirates, the Padres were able to pull away late with a four-run seventh inning and an additional four runs in the ninth to secure the 8-2 victory. This win helps the Padres maintain their position in the competitive NL West race, while the Pirates continue to search for more consistent success in the early part of the season.