SAN DIEGO — It took three pitches, ranging in velocity from 99.4 mph to 100.2 mph, for Robert Suarez to reach two strikes Friday at Petco Park against the potential final batter, a little-known infielder for one of the worst teams in major-league history.

Good morning, Baseball folks are fond of saying this time of year that the only thing that matters is getting the win. Last night — as significant and exciting as the Padres’ victory over the White Sox was — did not feel that simply defined.