Dylan Cease delivered a standout performance for the San Diego Padres, throwing 8 1/3 innings and allowing just two hits in a 4-0 shutout against the Houston Astros. Manny Machado starred offensively, hitting two home runs, while Fernando Tatis Jr. and Donovan Solano added consecutive homers in the eighth inning. The victory secured the Padres' position as they remain 2.5 games ahead of Arizona for the National League’s top wild-card spot. Framber Valdez pitched well for the Astros, allowing only one run over seven innings before the Padres broke the game open against reliever Kaleb Ort. The win is especially significant as it came against a strong Astros team, who now see their division lead reduced to 4.5 games over Seattle. Cease's performance is considered one of his best, following his recent no-hitter, and he received a warm ovation from the crowd as he left the field.