SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 13 (UPI) -- Pablo Sandoval cracked a three-run homer Monday, one of a trio of long balls launched by the San Francisco Giants in their 8-3 win over San Diego.
Sandoval's blast in the seventh provided the final margin of victory for the Giants, who kept their faint playoff hopes alive with a win in the opener of a three-game set.
Carlos Beltran connected for a two-run homer and Cody Ross went 3-for-4 with a solo shot, three runs scored and an RBI single for the Giants.
Eric Surkamp (2-0) notched his second win in his third major league start, allowing three runs (two earned) on seven hits over 5 2/3 innings for the Giants, who entered the contest trailing first-place Arizona by 8 1/2 games in the National League West.
Aaron Harang (13-6) surrendered four runs on six hits in a five-inning effort for the Padres.
San Diego's Chris Denorfia went 3-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
