Jase Bowen delivered a game-changing grand slam in the fourth inning, propelling the San Diego Padres to a commanding 10-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. With Bowen's bat leading the charge, the Padres amassed 15 hits, providing ample support for Walker Buehler.
In his second Cactus League start, Buehler pitched 3.2 innings, allowing two runs on five hits, while striking out two and issuing a walk. The Padres now head back to the Peoria Sports Complex to face the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday evening.
Injury concerns are brewing for the Padres, as Sung-Mun Song's oblique injury might land him on the IL, potentially sidelining him for Opening Day. This situation opens the door for Ty France to possibly secure a spot on the roster.
The Padres' bullpen, a formidable force last season, is once again poised to be among the league's elite. With just over two weeks until Opening Day, the roster is taking shape, and Joe Musgrove is getting some extra rest as he recovers from Tommy John surgery.
Jeff Sanders has his eye on German Marquez, who is vying for the fifth starter position in the rotation, adding another layer of intrigue to the Padres' pitching staff.
In other baseball news, tensions surfaced during the WBC when Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh declined a handshake from teammate Randy Arozarena during a game between the US and Mexico. Despite the apparent friction, Raleigh insists there's no ongoing issue.
Meanwhile, New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is optimistic about being ready for Opening Day after recovering from a Hamate bone injury. Houston Astros closer Josh Hader has begun his spring training bullpen sessions, though his Opening Day status remains uncertain. Cincinnati Reds pitcher Hunter Greene will undergo surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow, sidelining him until July.
As the countdown to Opening Day continues, these developments are shaping the landscape for teams across the league.