Padres News: Manny Machado Praises Trade Deadline Additions

He's glad his team went all-in at the deadline.

Manny Machado was glad the Padres were buyers at the deadline.

“Those guys are gonna be impactful to this team,” Machado said. “You’ve got some guys who are gonna bring experience to the ballclub … and guys that are gonna boost our club. So we’re excited to have them and know that we’re in a better position today than we were yesterday.”

Via San Diego Union Tribune

Many pundits criticized the Padres for being buyers because the likelihood of the Padres reaching the playoffs remains slim. Along with the Mets, the Padres are the most disappointing National League team after a thrilling offseason.

However, any time management adds talent to the major league roster, the players are happy. They feel both the ownership and the front office have confidence in their ability to win.

While the Padres probably should have sold both Blake Snell and Josh Hader to reload their minor league system, general manager A.J. Preller ignored the conventional wisdom and added pitching and offensive help.

The Padres expected a better performance from their clubhouse leader Machado. While playing satisfactory defense at third base, Machado hasn’t had the same offensive production as he did in 2022 when the Padres reached the NLCS. Machado has a .258 batting average with 20 home runs, 62 RBI, and a .780 OPS. In 2022, he had an MVP-caliber season that warranted a massive contract extension.

Thus, Machado wants the Padres to be competitive for this year and beyond. If Preller’s moves motivate Machado and his teammates to play better, it is good for the National League West and the rest of baseball.