Wed May 14 04:40:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Angels Stun Padres with Late Inning Rally, Ward Grand Slam Seals Victory**
SAN DIEGO – The Los Angeles Angels pulled off a stunning 9-5 victory over the San Diego Padres on Monday night at Petco Park, fueled by a six-run ninth inning capped off by a Taylor Ward grand slam.
The Angels mounted their comeback against Padres closer Robert Suarez, who had been virtually unhittable, converting 18 consecutive save opportunities. Suarez (0-1) faltered dramatically, allowing a single followed by four consecutive walks, forcing in two runs and ending his stellar streak. Relief pitcher Alek Jacob struck out Jorge Soler before Ward launched a 2-2 pitch deep to left field for his fifth career grand slam, sending Angels fans into a frenzy.
Zach Neto had previously given the Angels a spark with a two-run homer in the third inning. However, the Padres responded in the bottom of the third with three runs of their own, highlighted by an RBI single from Jackson Merrill and a costly throwing error by Angels pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. Fernando Tatis Jr. added to the Padres’ lead with a solo home run in the fifth, his 10th of the season. A Xander Bogaerts sacrifice fly in the eighth extended the Padres’ lead to 5-3.
Kikuchi pitched six innings, allowing four runs (two earned) on seven hits. Brock Burke (4-0) earned the win for the Angels with a scoreless eighth, while Kenley Jansen shut the door in the ninth, striking out two. Padres starter King struck out eight over 5 2/3 innings, surrendering three runs (two earned) on four hits.
Suarez’s struggles were particularly surprising, as he had only allowed one run in his first 18 appearances this season. He had also never walked more than two batters in a game prior to Monday night.
The Padres were playing their first home game this month following a successful 6-3 road trip.
Looking ahead, RHP José Soriano (2-4, 4.00 ERA) is scheduled to start for the Angels on Tuesday against RHP Dylan Cease (1-2, 4.91 ERA) of the Padres.
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