San Diego Padres’ 2023 season has not started as they expected, with a win-loss record of 8-10. Their offense in particular has struggled at times, with them losing games because of it. Most recently, star infielder Manny Machado opened up on the Padres’ offensive struggles and issued a strong statement.
The Padres are coming off an NLCS appearance during the 2022 season. Experts expected them to be title contenders this year, and have a huge 2023 season. But they have struggled to score runs consistently, with Machado and some of their other players batting inconsistently.
Manny Machado reveals his thoughts on the Padres’ offensive struggles
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The Padres are going through an up-and-down run of games to start the season. Star infielder Manny Machado shared his thoughts on the issue. He said that he’s happy it is happening early in the season and not later in the year. Furthermore, he warned fans not to criticize them now and jump on the bandwagon when they start playing well. MLB.com’s AJ Cassavell shared Machado’s thoughts via Twitter.
"I'd rather this happen now than down the road," Manny Machado said of the offense's slow start.
And for anyone who would read too much into 18 games:
"It's just: Don't jump on the bandwagon later on when we start f—ing raking and we're doing what we're supposed to be doing."
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) April 18, 2023
According to Cassavell, Machado said this of the slow offensive start, “I’d rather this happen now than down the road.” Machado further said, “It’s just: Don’t jump on the bandwagon later on when we start f—ing raking and we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing.”
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This is a strong statement from Machado, who recently signed a massive $350 million extension. He is also struggling with some inconsistent batting himself and currently has a batting average of .239 for the season. It will be interesting to see how the Padres play in the next few games and whether Machado will be able to rally his teammates and mount a comeback.
The Padres are still expected to make a deep postseason run
Despite an unusually slow start to the season, experts predict that the San Diego Padres will go deep in the postseason. With stars such as Manny Machado and Juan Soto somewhat struggling on offense, they are expected to improve and have a bigger impact. Furthermore, Fernando Tatis Jr. is going to return from his suspension in a few days and play his first game. He has smashed some big hits in the Minor Leagues. That will probably provide the Padres with a much-needed boost.
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What do you think of Manny Machado’s comments on the Padres’ offensive struggles? Kindly share your thoughts in the comments below.
