SAN DIEGO — It took three pitches, ranging in velocity from 99.4 mph to 100.2 mph, for Robert Suarez to reach two strikes Friday at Petco Park against the potential final batter, a little-known infielder for one of the worst teams in major-league history.

The San Diego Padres have been the best team in baseball since the All-Star break, blazing a trail toward the playoffs to the tune of a 35-16 second-half record. The return of Fernando Tatis Jr. gives them a full and powerful lineup,

Good morning, Baseball folks are fond of saying this time of year that the only thing that matters is getting the win. Last night — as significant and exciting as the Padres’ victory over the White Sox was — did not feel that simply defined.

What unfolded Friday night at Petco Park was not a particularly well-played baseball game, which you would half-expect considering the 2024 White Sox were involved. But the Padres are headed to the playoffs.

San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt has defended closer Robert Suarez lately but the question must be asked: Does a likely playoff-bound team with World Series dreams have a serious

Lenyn Sosa hit a tying two-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning, but the Chicago White Sox lost their 118th game when Fernando Tatis Jr.’s run-scoring double leading off the 10th lifted the San