SAN DIEGO — It took three pitches, ranging in velocity from 99.4 mph to 100.2 mph, for Robert Suarez to reach two strikes Friday at Petco Park against the potential final batter, a little-known infielder for one of the worst teams in major-league history.

The Padres move closer to playoff berth even as their closer struggles; Joe Musgrove gets ERA under 4.00 for first time this season as his post-IL excellence continues

The San Diego Padres have been the best team in baseball since the All-Star break, blazing a trail toward the playoffs to the tune of a 35-16 second-half record. The return of Fernando Tatis Jr. gives them a full and powerful lineup,

Fernando Tatis Jr. wins game with double leading off the 10th inning; Joe Musgrove throws six scoreless innings

San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt has defended closer Robert Suarez lately but the question must be asked: Does a likely playoff-bound team with World Series dreams have a serious question to answer about Suarez?

Lenyn Sosa hit a tying two-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning, but the Chicago White Sox lost their 118th game when Fernando Tatis Jr.’s run-scoring double leading off the 10th lifted the San