Context:

Jackson Merrill ended a 35-game homerless streak by hitting two home runs off All-Star Zack Wheeler, significantly contributing to the San Diego Padres' 5-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. Merrill's first home run tied the game at 2-2, while his second homer in the sixth inning evened the score at 4-4. Manny Machado's sacrifice fly in the seventh inning brought in Fernando Tatis Jr. for the go-ahead run. Zack Wheeler, who was selected for the All-Star team but will not pitch due to his recent start, allowed four runs over six innings, while Yu Darvish allowed four runs over five innings. The Padres' bullpen secured the win with David Morgan earning the win and Jeremiah Estrada closing out the game for his third save of the season.

Dive Deeper:

• Jackson Merrill broke a lengthy homerless streak by hitting two crucial home runs off All-Star pitcher Zack Wheeler, providing a significant boost to the Padres' offense. His first homer tied the game in the second inning, while his second in the sixth inning leveled the score again at 4-4.

• Manny Machado played a pivotal role by hitting a go-ahead sacrifice fly in the seventh inning, which allowed Fernando Tatis Jr. to score the decisive run, ultimately securing the Padres' victory over the Phillies.

• Zack Wheeler, a National League All-Star who will not pitch in the game, struggled in this outing, allowing four runs and six hits over six innings, marking only the fourth time in 19 starts this season he gave up more than two earned runs.

• Yu Darvish, making a comeback from right elbow inflammation, started for the Padres and allowed four runs over five innings, with Edmundo Sosa's two-run single in the fifth inning being a key moment against him.

• The Padres' bullpen was effective in maintaining the lead, with David Morgan earning the win for his effective inning of relief, and Jeremiah Estrada securing the game with a perfect ninth inning to earn his third save of the season.

• Zack Wheeler's performance was notable as it was only the third time a player hit multiple home runs against him in a game, a feat previously accomplished by Buster Posey and Cody Bellinger.

• The series is set to conclude with Phillies LHP Cristopher Sánchez and Padres RHP Nick Pivetta scheduled as the starting pitchers for the final game.