Coming off a close win against the Blue Jays, the Padres are sitting in second place in the NL West. Despite a strong start to the season, three key players have underperformed: Xander Bogaerts, Joe Musgrove, and Manny Machado.
Bogaerts, signed to a lucrative contract, has a disappointing slash line and OPS+. While his position in the lineup has been a consideration, Manager Mike Schildt has kept him as the leadoff hitter.
Musgrove, replacing injured ace Yu Darvish, has faced difficulties in the rotation. With an elevated ERA and high hit count, his spot in the rotation could be at risk.
Machado, recovering from elbow surgery, has been limited to designated hitter. His offensive production has been lackluster, and his absence from the field has impacted the Padres’ overall defense.
The Padres’ success in reaching the playoffs may depend on these players reversing their current performances. Bogaerts needs to find his hitting form, Musgrove must improve his pitching, and Machado needs to return to his consistent offensive and defensive contributions once he recovers from injury.
