Lauer sharp again, Renfroe hits late homer to end losing streak

Eric Lauer was tasked with the role of “stopper” Friday night. Thankfully, their opening day starter was up for the task.

And yes, he literally pitched through an earthquake.

“The only thing I could tell was the stadium just got louder,” said Padres lefty Eric Lauer. “So I just kept pitching. I had no idea what was going on.”

Lauers 2 runs (1 ER) over 6 innings were just what the team needed. He went toe to toe with Clayton Kershaw and looked every bit as good.

Max Muncy’s RBI fielders choice tied the score at 2 in the 6th. There wasn’t much action. That is, until Renfroe.

Renfroe was down 1-2 before connecting with a Yimi Garcia breaking ball. He hit a laser out of the yard, and continued to earn his reputation as one of the leagues clutch hitters.

Craig Stammen and Kirby Yates looked good and slammed the door in the 8th and 9th inning. It’s Yates 28th save.

Worth noting

Yates only had 1 save since June 18th, but still leads the majors with 28.

Fernando Tatis Jr went 2-4. He’s hit safely in 10 of 11 games.

Lauer has given up 1 ER or less in 7 of his last 9 starts. Over 50 ²⁄₃ innings, he’s given up just 15 ER. 8 of those were in 2 starts.

Craig Stammen had his 5th consecutive outing without giving up an ER.

Hunter Renfroe has gone from a question mark in the field to a borderline elite defender. He’s always had an arm, but both he and Franmil Reyes have dramatically improved.