Padres drop game, series to Mets

New York, NY - August 19: The San Diego Padres suffered a 4-2 defeat to the New York Mets at Citi Field on Wednesday, marking the second loss in their two-city road trip. The Padres finished the series with a 3-3 record against the Cleveland Guardians and the Mets. Starting pitcher Michael King, while effective, did not live up to the expectations of the Friar Faithful.

He worked 6.2 innings, allowing two runs on four hits, two walks, and striking out four batters. The Mets capitalized on King's mistake when Carson Benge hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning, giving New York a 2-0 lead. San Diego managed to score once in the top of the fifth inning when Xander Bogaerts hit a line drive double, allowing Xander Bogaerts to score from second base.

Despite opportunities, the Padres failed to score more runs, struggling to capitalize in high-pressure situations. In the ninth inning, with the score at 4-1, Gavin Sheets delivered a pinch-hit single to drive in a run, making the final score 4-2. The Padres had runners at second and third with one out when Austin Hays came to bat, grounding into a double play that ended the game.

The Padres will take an off day at home on Thursday and commence a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins at Petco Park on Friday at 6:40 p.m. Minor league news highlights include Ethan Salas' strong performance with Triple-A El Paso and Cheri Bell's recap of the Padres' minor league affiliates' week.