San Diego defeats Milwaukee to stay alive in the NLDS, cutting the series deficit to 2-1.
The San Diego Padres defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3 in Game 3 of their National League Division Series on Tuesday at Petco Park, avoiding postseason elimination, according to information published by bleache.
Milwaukee still leads the series 2-1, but San Diego gained crucial momentum through timely hitting and clutch pitching by their shorthanded bullpen to preserve their 2026 playoff season.
The victory provides relief for the Padres after dropping the first two games of the series, setting up a high-stakes Game 4 as both teams continue their pursuit of the World Series.
Padres Game 3 Recap and Highlights
A return home offered an opportunity for the Padres to move past two shocking losses. The home team started strong in the third inning when Samad Taylor singled, stole a base, and scored on an RBI ground out by Fernando Tatis Jr.
Jackson Merrill then singled, stole a base, and scored on an RBI single by Manny Machado. Milwaukee responded when William Contreras hit a solo home run and Jackson Chourio added a sacrifice fly to tie the game.
Clutch Home Runs and Bullpen Battle
Dustin May exited early for the Brewers, turning the matchup into a bullpen game. Jake Cronenworth broke the tie in the fifth inning with a solo home run to put the Padres ahead.
Xander Bogaerts added insurance in the sixth by scoring on a throwing error. Christian Yelich drove in a run for Milwaukee in the seventh, but the Padres bullpen held on under intense pressure.
Michael King Closes Out the Win
Without closer Mason Miller, who was placed on the paternity list, San Diego turned to Game 2 starter Michael King in a stunning late-inning development.
Michael King pitched a scoreless eighth inning and returned in the ninth to secure the victory by inducing a game-ending double play from Christian Yelich, sealing the 4-3 win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Game 3 between the Padres and Brewers?
The San Diego Padres defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3 in Game 3 of the National League Division Series at Petco Park.
What is the score of the NLDS series between San Diego and Milwaukee?
The Milwaukee Brewers currently lead the National League Division Series 2-1 against the San Diego Padres after Game 3.
Why did Michael King pitch in relief during Game 3?
San Diego turned to Michael King in relief because regular closer Mason Miller was unavailable after being placed on the paternity list.
