Tyler Stephenson’s Late Home Run Lifts Cincinnati Reds Over San Diego Padres 4-2 on September 9, 2025

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

Cincinnati Reds Triumph Over San Diego Padres with Late Stephenson Homer

Tyler Stephenson delivered a dramatic two-run home run with two outs in the ninth inning, propelling the Cincinnati Reds to a 4-2 victory over the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. This clutch hit came just five innings after Stephenson was robbed of a potential home run by an impressive catch from Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr.

Stephenson's Redemption Seals the Win

Facing All-Star closer Robert Suarez in the top of the ninth, Stephenson hammered a 2-1 pitch into the lower balcony of the brick warehouse in left field. The blast gave the Reds a 4-2 lead that they would hold onto for the win. Earlier in the fourth inning, Tatis Jr. made a perfectly timed leap at the right-field wall to prevent a two-run homer from Stephenson, his fourth home run robbery in just 27 home games since July 8.

Early Action and Padres Rally

The Reds built an early advantage with solo home runs from Sal Stewart and Will Benson in the first and second innings off San Diego starter Michael King. The Padres fought back to tie the game in the fifth inning thanks to Jackson Merrill’s RBI triple and Jake Cronenworth’s sacrifice fly off Zack Littell. Merrill had also hit a crucial triple in the Padres' previous 4-3 win in extra innings the night before.

Defensive Highlights and Key Injuries

Will Benson made a standout defensive play in the second inning, leaping into the right-field wall to catch a deep fly ball from Jose Iglesias. Benson hit his head during the play and spent several minutes on the ground, though he stayed in the game until being replaced by a pinch hitter in the seventh inning.

Impact on Standings

The victory moved the Reds within three games of the New York Mets for the final National League playoff spot. Meanwhile, the Padres slipped two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West but still hold the second National League wild card position.

Key Moment

Robert Suarez walked Gavin Lux just before Stephenson’s clutch homer, setting the table for the decisive blast.

Notable Stats

Connor Phillips (2-0) earned the win for Cincinnati, while Emilio Pagán collected his 27th save of the season.

Up Next

The Reds will send left-hander Andrew Abbott (8-6, 2.88 ERA) to the mound for the series finale, while the Padres counter with right-hander Nick Pivetta (13-5, 2.85 ERA) on Wednesday night.

In summary

The Cincinnati Reds secured a dramatic road victory over the San Diego Padres, highlighted by Tyler Stephenson’s late two-run homer after being previously robbed by Fernando Tatis Jr. Early home runs from Sal Stewart and Will Benson helped build a lead, and key relief pitching closed out the win. The Reds are now closer in the playoff race, while the Padres look to bounce back in the series finale. This exciting matchup featured home run heroics, elite defensive plays, and significant playoff implications in the National League.

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