4 San Diego Padres who are playing their way out of the team's 2024 plans

2) Matt Carpenter is playing his way out of the 2024 plans for the San Diego Padres

This one feels kind of obvious, but has to be stated anyway since for some reason, Matt Carpenter is still with the Padres. The 37-year-old was signed to a two-year deal this past offseason after appearing to revive his career in the Bronx, but after a solid first month, he's been a disaster in San Diego.

Since May 1, he's slashing .127/.261/.195 with one home run and 11 RBI. He has 15 hits in his last 118 at-bats. He has two hits in his last 37 at-bats if you want a more recent sample.

Carpenter was expected to be the primary DH to start against right-handed pitching, but was so bad to the point where Gary Sanchez was taking over that role. The Padres acquired Ji-Man Choi at the deadline to be the primary DH, but then Choi landed on the IL. With Choi out, it's Garrett Cooper acting as the DH.

Carpenter has one at-bat since July 24 and it came as a pinch-hitter in a blowout. He hasn't started a game since July 23. He hasn't recorded a hit since July 16. Yes, over a month since his last hit. Carpenter has a player option which he will surely opt into, but the Padres can't go into 2024 with this guy who they refuse to play now on the roster.