Gavin Sheets Blasts Pinch-Hit Homer as Padres Sweep Cubs in NL Wild Card

San Diego Padres hitter Gavin Sheets launched a decisive two-run pinch-hit home run off Daniel Palencia's 101 mph fastball in the fourth inning, lifting San Diego to a 4-1 victory and a two-game NL Wild Card sweep over the Chicago Cubs. Subbing in for Austin Hays while managing a nagging left foot plantar injury, Sheets recorded his second career postseason homer. The victory sends the Padres to the NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers after outscoring Chicago 12-1 across two games.