The San Diego Padres endured a historically bad performance on Wednesday, falling to the Chicago Cubs with a staggering 23-3 scoreline. This defeat ties the franchise record for the most runs allowed in a single game, last seen in 1977.
The Padres' pitching staff struggled immensely throughout the game. Starter Walker Buehler, who had pitched well in his previous outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers, surrendered nine earned runs on seven hits and four walks over four innings at Wrigley Field. This outing marked Buehler's worst start of the season.
Every Padres pitcher who took the mound on Wednesday allowed at least five runs. Reliever Kyle Hart contributed five runs across two innings. In an unusual move to preserve bullpen arms, rookie catcher Rodolfo Duran, 28, pitched the final two innings, allowing eight more runs.
The Cubs' offense was potent, hitting eight home runs against the Padres. Dansby Swanson was a standout, hitting three home runs and driving in eight runs. Michael Conforto also added two home runs for Chicago.
This lopsided defeat was part of a three-game sweep where the Cubs outscored the Padres 35-12. The series finale represents one of the most significant losses in the franchise's history.
Manager Craig Stammen's first season at the helm has been challenging. Despite currently being tied for second place in the NL West with the San Francisco Giants, the Padres have struggled offensively, ranking last in Major League Baseball with a .224 batting average.
With the trade deadline approaching next month, President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller is expected to make moves in an attempt to improve the team's performance.