Gwynn’s Pinch-Hit Single Helps Padres Beat Reds

His record doesn’t reflect it, but rookie Adam Eaton had just as much to do with the San Diego Padres’ 3-1 win over staggering CincinnatiSaturday as Tony Gwynn’s go-ahead, pinch-hit RBI single.

Eaton, 22, held the Reds to one run and five hits in 7 2/3 innings. He didn’t get the decision; that went to Kevin Walker, another rookie who started the season at Double-A Mobile.

Gwynn helped give the Padres the win with his single when Red Manager Jack McKeon gambled with pitcher-batter matchups and lost.

Eaton did everything but get the decision.

“He’s very impressive,” said Gwynn. “The thing I’ve said all along is his composure is just amazing. He’s facing a lineup with I don’t know how many All-Stars in it and his facial expression never changes. He looks like he’s been here for 10 years.”

Cincinnati lost for the 10th time in 11 games.

San Diego’s Chris Gomez was announced as the pinch-hitter for Walker, but McKeon chose to bring in right-hander Scott Williamson, and Padre Manager Bruce Bochy countered with left-handed-hitting Gwynn, who singled.

Eric Owens followed with an RBI single, only the sixth hit of the game for the Padres.