Kepler's Comeback Homer
Max Kepler Powers Diamondbacks with First Homer Since Returning From Suspension
Max Kepler hit a three-run home run — his first since returning from an 80-game PED suspension — to power the Arizona Diamondbacks to an 8-0 blowout win over the San Diego Padres, according to Newsday. The homer was the 180th of Kepler's career and signaled a loud statement in his return to the lineup.
Kepler also added an RBI single in the first inning, finishing the game with four RBIs. Arizona's offense was dominant from start to finish, never giving San Diego a chance to get back in the game.
Kepler Crushes Buehler's Fastball in Third Inning
The big swing came in the third inning. Padres starter Walker Buehler threw a 94 mph four-seam fastball, and Kepler sent it out of the park for a three-run shot, per Post Register. The homer pushed Arizona's lead to 6-0 and put the game out of reach early.
Buehler never recovered. Arizona built on that lead and cruised to the shutout. The Padres were held scoreless all night, never threatening against the Diamondbacks' pitching staff.
Kepler's 80-Game Suspension for PED Use
Kepler served an 80-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug. That is the standard penalty under MLB's joint drug program for a first offense. The suspension kept him out for a significant chunk of the season, according to Daily Item.
His return has been closely watched. Monday's game gave him a chance to show he still has power at the plate. He did not waste it, going deep on one of his first real tests back against a big-league starter.
Arizona Dominates San Diego in Complete-Game Shutout
The 8-0 final was not close at any point. Arizona jumped on Buehler early, scoring in the first inning on Kepler's RBI single and adding to the lead in the third. The Diamondbacks' pitching staff matched the offense, keeping San Diego off the board all night, per The Star.
The win was a strong team effort from Arizona. Kepler led the way with four RBIs, but the entire lineup contributed to the lopsided result. For a Diamondbacks team looking to push in the standings, it was exactly the kind of dominant performance they needed.
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