The San Diego Padres have been a disappointment this season, and team leader Manny Machado has not played to the best of his ability. That’s partly because a lingering injury has hurt his performance.
Machado spoke with the media on Monday, a few days after his leadership was called into question by a lengthy article from the San Diego Union-Tribune’s Kevin Acee. Machado answered questions about why the Padres’ season has been a disappointment. The third baseman took blame for not delivering to the expectations that ownership and the fans had.
Machado also indicated that he will likely undergo elbow surgery over the offseason to address lingering issues.
Machado has still slugged 28 home runs and delivered 84 RBIs this season, but his average is a career-low .251. Machado said his elbow has bothered him for about two years and has gotten to a point where he needs to address the injury.
“I think it’s gotten to that point where you can’t take that pain anymore. I think it’s taken a hit on my performance,” Machado said.
Machado thinks he will have a 7-month recovery or so and will aim to be ready for next season. The 31-year-old was signed to a new 10-year, $350 million contract extension prior to the season. He is under contract through 2033.
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