Padres struggle defensively in series-opening loss to Rays

The San Diego Padres dropped the series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays 9-4 at Tropicana Field on August 28, 2026. A five-run fourth inning for Tampa Bay created a significant deficit, putting the Padres in a 6-0 hole. Despite attempts to rally, including a two-run home run from Jackson Merrill, the Padres could not overcome the early lead. San Diego's pitching struggles continued as the game progressed, allowing runs in the sixth and seventh innings. The Padres are set to face the Rays again today at 1:10 p.m.

• 1:30 PMYahoo Sports — Ugly inning leads to series-opening loss for Padres against Rays