The San Diego Padres secured a 3-1 victory over the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday afternoon at Petco Park, extending their winning streak to five games.
The win improved their record to 55-53, placing them 1.5 games behind the Arizona Diamondbacks and Philadelphia Phillies for the final National League Wild Card spots.
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San Diego used an unconventional pitching plan, with starter Kyle Hart logging 2 2/3 scoreless innings before bulk reliever Griffin Canning tossed three additional scoreless frames.
Manager Craig Stammen stuck with the planned bullpen strategy despite the effectiveness of his initial pitchers, who combined for 5 2/3 scoreless innings.
"But when you have it planned out the way we have planned it out -- and spent time doing it -- we feel much better about sticking to the plan," said Stammen.
Canning returned to the mound following his outing and noted the collective effort behind the team's midsummer momentum.
"We've won five in a row," said Canning. "I think we're all on board to contribute and help the team in any way we can."
Canning's Key Play and Recovery
Canning also detailed how he caught Cole Carrigg off first base in the sixth inning after recognizing the opponent's previous running habits.
"I saw him steal, first pitch, against Michael (King) yesterday, so I was kind of thinking he might be going," said Canning.
He further described the physical improvements he has experienced roughly a year following his June Achilles surgery. "I've felt good all year," said Canning.
