Red Sox Dominate Padres 10–2 in Series Opener, Build Momentum on the Road

San Diego, CA — August 9, 2025 — The Boston Red Sox continued their impressive run with a commanding 10–2 victory over the San Diego Padres in the first game of their crucial road series at Petco Park. This victory marks Boston’s eighth win in their last nine games, underscoring a surge of momentum as they push deeper into the playoff race.

Walker Buehler’s Masterful Start

Red Sox ace Walker Buehler was the star on the mound, delivering six scoreless innings while allowing just four hits. Buehler struck out four batters and walked two, continuing his dominance over the Padres with an improved lifetime record of 7–1 against San Diego and an astounding 1.67 ERA across 13 starts. His performance stabilized the Red Sox’s pitching staff and set the tone for the offensive onslaught.

Power Surge from the Boston Lineup

The Red Sox offense exploded early, led by Wilyer Abreu, who launched a massive two-run homer in the fourth inning. The 423-foot blast marked his league-leading 21st home run of the season and helped the Sox pull away from the Padres.

Later in the game, Masataka Yoshida added a two-run homer in the ninth, while Connor Wong delivered a crucial bases-loaded double in the eighth inning, further extending Boston’s lead. The lineup’s timely hitting and consistent pressure kept the Padres’ pitching staff on their heels throughout the contest.

Padres Struggle to Find Rhythm

On the other side, San Diego’s starting pitcher Nick Pivetta, who was facing his former team, struggled to contain Boston’s offense, giving up five runs over six innings. The Padres offense also faltered, leaving 12 runners on base and managing just a 1-for-7 performance with runners in scoring position.

The Padres' inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and the shaky pitching contributed heavily to their series-opening loss.

Looking Ahead: Series Continues Saturday

The Padres are set to activate right-handed pitcher Michael King from the injured list, who will face off against the Red Sox’s Lucas Giolito in Saturday’s game. Both teams entered the weekend with nearly identical records (Red Sox 64–52, Padres 64–51), making this series pivotal as they vie for playoff positioning in the competitive National League West and American League East divisions.

Conclusion

Boston’s dominant showing in the opener has put them in a strong position to take control of the series on the West Coast. With solid pitching performances and timely hitting, the Red Sox look poised to maintain their winning streak and strengthen their postseason chances.