Kolek Debuts, Padres Sweep Pirates 4-0

Stephen Kolek delivered an impressive performance in his first major league start, pitching over five scoreless innings and leading the San Diego Padres to a 4-0 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates, completing a series sweep and extending the Padres' win streak to five games. Kolek, who was recalled from Triple-A El Paso and had previously pitched only in relief for the Padres, allowed four hits, struck out four, and walked two before being relieved after 84 pitches. The Padres' bullpen continued its dominance, combining with Kolek for the team's eighth shutout of the season, the most in the majors, and maintaining a league-best ERA among relievers. Early offensive support came from Xander Bogaerts, who drove in three runs, including a two-run double, while Elias Diaz contributed a solo home run. Manny Machado added three hits as the Padres capitalized on early opportunities against Pirates starter Andrew Heaney. The Pirates' struggles continued, marking their fourth consecutive loss and seventh in their last eight games.