Manny Machado’s slow September start a troubling sign for Padres

Padres’ third baseman Manny Machado is having one of the worst stretches of the 2025 season, as he is slashing .098/.119/.268 (entering Sept. 12). To say his poor performance is impacting those around him is an understatement, as the team is off to a disappointing 4-6 start to the month of September.

They are quickly falling behind the Dodgers in the NL West standings, as LA is coming off a three-game sweep at home against the Colorado Rockies - a team that the Padres will host for four games over the weekend.

While his slump has been especially prevalent since the start of September, Machado’s stats have really taken a hit since mid-August. Since August 15, he’s seen his batting average drop 22 points, his on-base percentage drop 21 points, and his slugging percentage drop 30 points. On top of that, his OPS has dropped from .841 to .785, a 56-point difference.

Manny Machado's solid 2025 season has come to a full stop as September struggles continue

The Padres signed Machado to a lucrative eleven-year deal worth $350 million. The reason for this was not just because of his talent on the field; it was also due to his clubhouse leadership, as he would serve as a mentor to the younger players. He has also been an absolute workhorse, as he has appeared in every single game for the Padres as either the third baseman or the designated hitter.

Since the start of Machado’s slump, another notable Padre has endured a production drop-off of his own. Ryan O’Hearn, for example, who the team traded for at the deadline, has seen his slugging percentage drop 12 points. While his on-base percentage has increased, O’Hearn hasn’t provided the “it” factor at the plate; his OPS has dropped 18 points because of this.

Aside from losing ground on the Dodgers, the Padres are also losing ground on the Cubs in the race for the first Wild Card spot, now sitting four full games back.

Mike Shildt has stated that he believes it is a matter of time before Machado escapes this extended slump, even stating so when asked. “He’ll figure it out,” said Shildt. "It's Manny Machado.”

It will be very interesting to see how he looks down the line. As the playoffs inch closer, it is vital that Machado be at peak form. Only time will tell.