Padres' Superstar Unsure If He'll Return to Full Health in 2023

Manny is inching closer to a return from IL

The San Diego Padres have been facing a tough challenge without their star third baseman, Manny Machado, who has been sidelined for the past 15 days due to a left-hand fracture. This righty slugger sustained the injury when he was struck by a heater that he took straight to his left hand. Unfortunately, his recovery has taken longer than initially anticipated. Nonetheless, the 30-year-old is eager to make a comeback as soon as possible, which could be this weekend. 

However, he acknowledges the reality of possibly never being close to 100% but being healthy enough to produce at a high level. 

“I just want to be as close to 100 percent as I can be,” he said. “I don’t think I’m ever going to be 100 percent again this season with how baseball is. But just get as close as I can get to, whenever that day is.”

In a grueling baseball season, it's virtually impossible for players to be at 100 percent throughout.

Nevertheless, he remains determined to come back stronger than before. This extended break from the game has allowed him to reflect on his performance and make improvements.

The six-time All-Star recognizes that the baseball season is an arduous journey, filled with ups and downs. Although he may not be at his absolute best at the moment, he is motivated to get back to an MVP level and help the Friars turn their season around. 

The Padres and their fans eagerly await Machado's return, knowing that his presence will undoubtedly elevate the team's performance.