Game Overview
The San Diego Padres clinched a coveted postseason spot on September 22, 2025, by edging the Milwaukee Brewers 5-4 in an electrifying 11th inning. After a deadlocked nine frames, both teams turned to their relievers, and the game swung back and forth like a pendulum. The Padres’ offense finally broke the stalemate when Freddy Fermin delivered a decisive RBI single, sending the crowd into a frenzy and sealing the victory.
Milwaukee had entered the contest seeking to rebound from a recent slump, while San Diego was riding a late-season surge. Both clubs displayed solid defensive work, but the turning point came in the extra innings when the Padres loaded the bases with two outs, setting the stage for Fermin’s heroics.
Key Moments and Player Impact
Early in the game, the Brewers struck first, capitalizing on a misplayed double play to take a 1-0 lead. However, the Padres answered in the third inning, stringing together a three-run rally that showcased their depth at the plate. Veteran pitcher Chris Sale, returning from injury, delivered six strong innings for San Diego, limiting Milwaukee’s offense and keeping the game within reach.
Milwaukee’s bullpen, bolstered by a standout performance from reliever Brandon Woodruff, kept the Padres from extending the lead in the seventh and eighth innings. Yet, the Padres’ persistence paid off when rookie catcher Jacob Stallings shattered a crucial pitch in the 10th, tying the game and pushing it into the extra frame.
The final showdown in the 11th saw the Padres with the bases loaded. Fermin, known for his clutch hitting, swung a fastball to the right-field corner, driving home the winning run. His single not only secured the win but also clinched San Diego’s first playoff berth of the season, ending months of speculation about the team’s postseason fate.
Postgame reactions highlighted the significance of the victory. Padres manager Mike Shildt praised his squad’s resilience, noting, “We fought through every adversity today. This win is a testament to our belief and execution.” Meanwhile, Brewers manager Craig Counsell acknowledged the narrow loss, emphasizing the importance of staying competitive in the final stretch of the season.
