Padres News: Friars Remain Elite NL West Threat When Stars Produce Offense

When the Padres figure it out, they'll be scary

The Padres came into 2023 with expectations they have never faced as a franchise. This is the year they are supposed to get it done, no excuses. As of early June, they don't look like the championship contenders, but they still carry those exact expectations from the outside and inside their clubhouse. 

That remains because of their big four in Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, Juan Soto, and Fernando Tatis Jr. The Firas big four may be the best in baseball, and it's not close. These four have accomplished so much in their careers, while some are just starting. 

When most of them are right, they are a tough team to beat, and Wednesday's game proved that. Padres insider Kevin Acee provided us with a tidbit that proves why they're a dominant big four and maybe why they're struggling at the same time. 

Yesterday was just the 21st game in which at least three members of the Big Four have gotten a hit. The Padres have won 15 of those games. (The entire Big Four of Tatis, Soto, Xander Bogaerts and Manny Machado has played together in just 22 games.)

Via The San Diego Tribune

The big four are as dominant as they come, and the numbers show it as they are 15-6 when most get one hit. However, they haven't had that much time together. As of June 8, the Friars have played 62 games, but the big four have only played 22 games as a whole.

Injuries and suspensions have a big reason to do with that, but regardless, San Diego is primed to get healthy and showcase they are a championship team with their core four. 

Looking at it glass half full, the Padres have yet to scratch the surface of what they can accomplish.