Padres’ Magic Number Shrinks After Much-Needed Win Over White Sox

Sep 20, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Diego Padres outfielders Jackson Merrill (3), Jackson Merrill (3) and and Gavin Sheets (30) point towards first baseman Ryan O'Hearn (32) after scoring on his three run double against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | Matt Marton-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres beat the Chicago White Sox, 7-3, on Saturday, lowering the team's magic number to three to clinch a spot in the MLB playoffs.

The Padres were sputtering, losing three out of their last four games before picking up the win in The Windy City.

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The offense woke up and delivered, notching 11 hits and seven runs in total.

The pitching staff also delivered, with Yu Darvish pitching 4.2 innings and only allowing two runs.

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The bullpen only allowed one more run in the game, shutting down the White Sox and securing the game early on.

Ryan O'Hearn delivered for the Padres, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs. Jackson Merrill also broke through with a strong offensive showing, going 2-for-4 with a homer and a double.

Adrian Morejon picked up the victory, adding to his historic win total for a relief pitcher. No other reliever in Padres history has as many wins in one season as the Cuban does with 13.

San Diego has two season series left after Sunday, when they close out the series with the White Sox. They will host the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Milwaukee Brewers with the hope of securing a National League Wild Card spot.

For more Padres news, head over to Padres on SI.