The Padres lost to the Brewers 3-1 on Wednesday afternoon, preventing them from gaining ground on the Cubs or Dodgers in the standings. But perhaps more significant than losing the game was losing one of their best hitters in Ramon Laureano, who exited the game in the 3rd inning after a long at-bat in which he struck out. Laureano was examined by the medical staff after striking out, and was replaced in the outfield by Bryce Johnson. Laureano has been one of the team's best hitters since coming over at the trade deadline, and Mike Shildt said after the game that Laureano fractured the index finger on his right hand, and will miss at least the Wild Card Series next week. Shildt did not want to put a specific timeline on how long Laureano would be out, and didn't rule out a return during the postseason.
Dylan Cease pitched well, striking out 8 while allowing just one run in 5 innings of work, which was a welcome sight for the Padres. So was the sight of Jackson Merrill hitting another home run, this time a game-tying solo shot in the 6th inning. But Brice Turang's RBI-single in the 7th put the Brewers on top for good, while Danny Jansen's solo shot in the 9th provided a 2-run cushion for closer Abner Uribe, who struck out two in a perfect 9th inning. The Padres are off on Thursday before playing the Diamondbacks in the final series of the regular season.
You can watch the Jamul Casino Resort Padres Postgame Show below, with full highlights from the game and Mike Shildt's postgame press conference.