Padres’ Manny Machado Confronts Brutal Slump: ‘Getting the Bad Out Early’

San Diego Padres star Manny Machado has publicly addressed his severe offensive slump in the 2026 season, acknowledging the team’s overall struggles at the plate. In a candid interview with MLB Network’s Jake Peavy, Machado expressed optimism, hoping the Padres are “getting the bad out of the way early” in their quest for consistency.

Currently batting around .175 with limited power and production, Machado’s performance is central to the Padres’ playoff aspirations, with the veteran battling mechanical issues affecting his rhythm. The team needs his production to stabilize and translate hopeful words into improved at-bats to turn their season around.