Padres News: Padres Manager Stands By Struggling Closer as Team Eyes Crucial Playoff Push

The San Diego Padres are facing a critical juncture as their closer, Robert Suarez, has encountered significant struggles in recent games. Suarez blew two saves within three opportunities, including a notable failure against the San Francisco Giants, prompting manager Mike Shildt to comment that Suarez appeared "human" rather than invincible. Despite this, Shildt defended Suarez’s capabilities, asserting, “The ball is coming out good,” and reiterated his confidence in the pitcher during crucial moments.

“Human,” Shildt said as posted by 97.3 The Fan. “He was basically (better than) human the first however many parts of the season. The ball is coming out good. … Give credit to (Ramos), put a good swing and put a good at-bat together. They’re just catching up to balls to take some opposite-field shots. That’s a hard thing to do, and they’ve been able to do it. But you know, he’s throwing 99, 100, 101. Stuff is really good.

“It’s part of the game. Over the course of the season, you’re going to give up a few balls to get barreled, and it’s going to be showing up when you pitch the ninth inning. … But I will take him tomorrow in a one-run game. I can tell you that.”

Suarez's recent challenges are starkly contrasted by his earlier performance this season, where he had an impressive 1.42 ERA and only two blown saves across his first 34 opportunities. Currently, Suarez has pitched 59 innings, the most since his time in Japan, but his recent streak reflects a troubling 6.14 ERA over his last 14 games. This inconsistency comes to the fore particularly following a game where he delivered a record 100.2 mph pitch, which allowed Heliot Ramos to achieve the first-ever "splash hit" by a right-handed batter in Oracle Park's history.

Despite these troubles, the Padres secured a 4-3 victory against the Giants, scoring two runs in the 10th inning and witnessing Adrián Morejón step up to earn the save. This win completes a three-game series sweep, highlighting the team's resolve despite individual struggles.

However, this ongoing pressure on Suarez raises questions regarding the team's overall performance as they navigate the playoff push. With mixed results from their closer and ongoing challenges within the organization, the Padres face a crucial path forward as the season winds down.

Related: Padres News: Machado Celebrates 100 RBIs as Playoff Hopes Intensify

Going Deeper

Reference Links:

1. Padres' Manager Defends Struggling Closer Amid Playoff Push
2. Yu Darvish Helps Padres' Playoff Push with 6 Scoreless Innings
3. Padres Push Back Against Reports There’s a Lack of Leadership
4. Padres Set to Get Huge Boost Amid Playoff Push
5. San Diego Padres Lose San Francisco Giants Division Matchup