The Padres’ starting pitcher was better than any has been this season, but one of their best relievers finally faltered.
And because their offense again couldn’t hit most of the game and ran the bases foolishly once, the Padres lost for the fifth straight time.
Derrick Dietrich’s two-run homer off Craig Stammen in the top of the 11th was the difference this time, giving the Reds a 3-2 victory on Friday night.
Stammen’s first homer allowed in 11 1/3 innings this season spoiled a night in which Matt Strahm kept the slumbering Padres offense within striking distance most of the game.