The loss to the Padres stings, but it also highlights the fine margins that can define a season. With close calls like the wild pitch, the Pirates must learn to execute in high-pressure moments if they hope to remain competitive in the playoff race.

A costly wild pitch in the ninth inning allowed Fernando Tatis Jr. to make a bold dash home for the winning run, handing the Pittsburgh Pirates a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the San Diego Padres on Saturday night.

Fernando Tatis Jr. capitalizes on a wild pitch to scamper home for winning run for the Padres. ESPN BET Sportsbook is owned and operated by PENN Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries ('PENN'). ESPN BET is available in states where PENN is licensed to offer sports wagering.

A two-out double by Machado and single by Bogaerts put the Padres up 1-0 in the first inning. They ended up loading the bases and making Heaney throw 30 pitches, as Luis Campusano and Gonzalez followed with walks before Jose Iglesias grounded into a fielder’s choice.

Stephen Kolek pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings in his first major league start and combined with four relievers for the San Diego Padres’ eighth shutout of the season, a 4-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday for their fifth straight win.