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Padres Reliever King Steps Up to Save NLDS Game 3
Developing
In Short: Former Yankees reliever Michael King stepped up in a crucial moment, pitching two scoreless innings to secure the Padres' 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the National League Division Series.
Former Yankees reliever Michael King stepped up in a crucial moment, pitching two scoreless innings to secure the Padres' 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the National League Division Series.
King's availability was a last-minute decision after the Padres' setup man Adrian Morejon suffered a stiff left shoulder during a catch session.
Padres manager Craig Stammen noted that Morejon was feeling better but was not ready to pitch, leaving King as the key relief option.
King's declaration to be available for the next two games came after he finished his work in Game 2 on Sunday night.
Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. praised King's performance, calling it 'incredible.'
Third baseman Manny Machado expressed relief, saying, 'He's a beast,' referring to King's ability to step in and perform under pressure.
Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla expressed hope that Morejon would be available for Game 4, but King's performance was crucial in keeping the Padres' season alive.
King's relief work came after Rodriguez allowed a run in the seventh inning, setting the stage for King's critical innings.
Niebla highlighted King's team spirit, noting that there was risk involved in pitching in such a high-pressure situation.
Padres ace Michael Miller was also unavailable due to his wife's impending delivery, adding to the team's relief pitching challenges.
King's performance in the eighth and ninth innings was pivotal, as it preserved the Padres' slim lead and forced a decisive Game 4.
Padres manager Craig Stammen emphasized King's readiness, saying, 'He was definitely feeling a little bit better today, just didn't feel like he could go,' but King proved otherwise.
What this adds
King's declaration to be available came after a long wait to see if his wife might deliver in time for him to make it to the ballpark.
The Padres' season was on the line, and King's performance was crucial in keeping their playoff hopes alive.
What's still developing
- Over the next three hours, Miller and the Padres were waiting to see if his wife might deliver in time for him to make it to the ballpark for the game.
- Rodriguez got through the seventh allowing a run, by which point King, a former reliever with the New York Yankees, started warming up in the bullpen.
- "I'm ready for bed," Machado said as midnight approached Tuesday.
- "Incredibly impressive, and such a team guy. That's not easy to do. There's risk in that. But he knew he could help us win this ballgame."
- "It's going to be another fight, just like the first three games, and I don't think I expect anything different."