Padres News: Manny Machado Could Be Ready to Play Third Base Come Opening Day

If the slugger isn't ready to play third, he will be the DH.

San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado has an opportunity to play third base in Spring Training, but manager Mike Shildt isn't putting a timetable on his return to the hot corner.

"He has an opportunity. That’s the keyword. He has an opportunity to start the season at third base. He’s on target to be able to get some opportunities to play in spring training at third base, but I’m not gonna put any timeframe on it."

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Mike Shildt, via the San Diego Union-Tribune

Machado underwent surgery two days after the end of the 2023 regular season to repair his right extensor tendon. His tennis elbow had bothered him since 2022.

Shildt says at this point, Machado has progressed more with hitting than fielding, but he isn't ruling out anything for Opening Day.

"Our medical staff and (assistant hitting coach) Mike McCoy have seen him in San Diego, and Manny is killing his offseason. He’s been able to swing. … I can tell you he’s on pace to be able to be ready offensively, and he’s in a really good spot and recovering well with his throwing. But we also know that we don’t feel like we have to validate him going out there (at third base) the early part of spring, the first exhibition game. He’s in a good spot to be ready for the start of the season."

Mike Shildt via San Diego Union-Tribune

The Padres open their regular season in Seoul, South Korea, against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 20. They return home to play a pair of exhibition games against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park March 25-26. Opening Day around Major League Baseball is two days later, when the Padres host the San Francisco Giants.

While there appears to be a strong chance fans will see Machado sometime during that stretch, there's a possibility he will be limited to designated hitter duties. 

Ha-Seong Kim, Matthew Batten, Jake Cronenworth are among those in camp with experience at third base, so the Padres have the depth to wait on Machado for as long as his elbow needs.