Franmil Reyes’ first-inning home run off Clayton Kershaw on Tuesday was indicative of the blessing and curse that is part of the Padres’ offensive problem — the one that has them with the majors’ third-lowest on-base percentage, lowest walk rate and highest strikeout rate.
Reyes’ team-leading 12th homer of the season came on a 1-2 slider down and not far enough off the plate to keep the big right fielder in the yard.
“I thought I got it away from him,” Kershaw said. “But with two strikes, edge or off is probably better. He’s a good hitter, especially against left-handed pitching.