Padres Analysis: The Top 10 Padres Games of 2014

Jun 18, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; Fans take pictures and pay their respects to San Diego Padres former player

at his statue before a game against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

4. June 18th, To Honor Tony Gwynn, Padres Win Close Game vs. Seattle Mariners 

It was the first home game since the death of Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn. It was a night of ceremony and remembrance. But it was also a night for a baseball game.

With the number “19” displayed in the cuts of the right field grass, the Padres squared off against the Seattle Mariners. In fact, they had to deal with their ace Felix Hernandez. He pitched a great game, going 7 innings and striking out 10. Cashner nearly matched him pitch for pitch.

The Mariners took an early 1-0 lead when Brad Miller singled home a run with one out in the 2nd. It took until the bottom of the 6th for the Padres to respond.

Amarista led off the inning with a single through the “5.5 hole” as Tony Gwynn called it, between shortstop and 3rd base. A bunt, ground out and wild pitch later, he scored to tie the game at 1 a piece. Charlie Furbush came in to relieve Hernandez in the 8th.

Cabrera led things off with a single. Amarista bunted him to second. Tommy Medica got to the plate and lined an 0-2 pitch into center field, scoring Cabrera. This gave the Padres a 2-1 lead heading into the ninth.

Huston Street shut the door once again for his 19th save. It was much more than a win. It was an emotional night celebrating the greatest player in franchise history. It was raw emotion from players, coaches and fans alike. It was a game Padres fans will not soon forget.