The San Francisco Giants were unable to complete a series sweep of the San Diego Padres on Wednesday, falling 7-1 at Petco Park. Defensive struggles between first and third base proved to be the difference, as errors by Matt Chapman and Casey Schmitt contributed to the Padres’ scoring.

Defensive Lapses Hurt Giants

Something wasn’t working between first and third base on Wednesday afternoon. Schmitt was charged with an error in the first inning after a wide throw from Chapman allowed Jackson Merrill to score the game’s first run. Chapman later took responsibility for a throw in the fifth inning that sailed into foul territory, leading to another Padres run.

Houser's Solid Outing Undermined

Giants starter Adrian Houser pitched well in his season debut, but ultimately ran into trouble after San Diego’s lineup turned over for a third time. While only one of the three runs charged to Houser was earned, the Padres managed three consecutive hits against him after he recorded the first out of the sixth inning.

Padres Pitching Shuts Down Giants Offense

San Diego’s ace, Nick Pivetta, rebounded from a difficult season opener to stifle the Giants’ bats. After scoring nine runs on 16 hits in a series-clinching win on Tuesday, San Francisco managed just four hits and struck out a season-high 14 times against Pivetta and the Padres pitching staff.

Arraez Leads Giants Offensively

Luis Arraez recorded three of the Giants’ four hits, including a double, and is currently batting .304 after six games. Harrison Bader added a two-out line drive in the seventh inning for the Giants’ only run of the game.

Looking Ahead

Despite the loss, manager Bob Melvin can view the road trip as a success, as the Giants won two of three games against the Padres after being swept in their opening series. Robbie Ray is scheduled to start for the Giants on Thursday as they return to Oracle Park to begin a seven-game homestand against the Mets and Phillies.

Bullpen Concerns Emerge

Jose Butto, a key member of the Giants’ bullpen, has struggled in his recent outings. He allowed three hits and four walks while only retiring one batter in his latest appearance, forcing manager Bob Vitello to use another reliever.