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Fingers Point at Padres’ ‘Cry Baby’ Manny Machado and Senior Players Amid ‘Winning Culture’ and ‘Leadership’ Void Allegations

Published 09/16/2023, 2:00 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

Despite boasting one of the most vaunted lineups and players in MLB, the Padres have failed to make a splash in 2023. Drawing near the end of the season, it appears unlikely that they will end with anything but a losing record despite some severe hitting power on their roster. In baseball, however, it’s not just the game ability of the players that is often put into question but rather the environment they are playing in. And for the Padres that question may be more pertinent than any other.

The Padres entered the 2023 season high on confidence after contending as far as the National League Championship Series last season. Despite losing to the Phillies and missing a trip to the World Series, the Petco Park faithful was confident of their performances coming into the season. However, the season has not panned out as they had expected. Staring down an early exit from the postseason. The question remains as to what led them here remains. And according to some, the players may be to blame.

Are the Players Responsible for the Padres’ record?

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Several veterans have recently come out to call the Padres’ failure to register any performances as a result of their training programs being too personal and tailored to individuals rather than the team. Some have even gone as far to personally name Manny Machado as an experienced presence on the roster who is refusing to take the responsibility for the Padres leaving a void in the team’s leadership.

Signed by the Padres on a $350 Million contract, Machado has not been able to inspire the players as many would have wanted to however if you ask Machado himself, he has already done all that he can. Said Machado, “I will always go above and beyond for everyone. I think everybody knows that. I go out there and I pour my heart and soul into a team. … Ultimately, I know what I bring to the team. I know what I’ve always brought to the team.

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Are the Padres Looking to Contend Next Season?

The fans in Petco Park would certainly like to see the rewards of their support soon. Despite a topsy turvy tenure, the Padres have certainly shown great promise in the seasons they have clicked. Having made the playoffs in 2 of the last 3 seasons of MLB, they certainly have the roster to contend.

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However, with team chemistry remaining a question for the stars, it remains to be seen if the prophecy comes true. For the fans of the Padres however, hope seems to be their best friend and worst enemy for the 2024 season.

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Written by:

Aditya Deshingkar

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Aditya Deshingkar is a MLB writer at EssentiallySports. In another life, Aditya was a lawyer with a premier legal firm in the country and has recently made the switch. As an avid sports lover, he shares a keen interest in NBA, MLB, and Formula 1.
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Edited by:

Nidhi