In a candid moment, Manny Machado, the veteran third baseman for the San Diego Padres, opens up about his struggles on the baseball field, revealing a unique perspective on the game that many might find surprising.
The Masochist's Mindset
Machado, approaching his 34th birthday, admits to being a 'masochist' when it comes to baseball. He embraces the ups and downs of the game, seeing the beauty in the rollercoaster ride of a season. Despite his current struggles, which have seen him hit rock bottom in terms of batting average, he remains confident and ready to counter the punches.
"This is why we love baseball. Us baseball players are masochists. We love being tortured," Machado says.
This mindset is a fascinating insight into the mental fortitude required to excel in a sport where failure is a constant companion.
The Impact on the Padres
Machado's performance, or lack thereof, has a significant impact on the Padres' season. With only 93 games left, the team is fighting to stay above .500, and Machado's presence is crucial. His contract, which will see him earn $39 million annually from 2027 to 2033, is a testament to his value to the team and the city of San Diego.
The Padres' success in recent years, making the playoffs four times in six years, is a direct result of Machado's leadership and the team's investment in the product. This success has led to a stratospheric rise in attendance and franchise value, with the team being sold for a record $3.9 billion.
A Rant on Analytics
Machado's recent comments on analytics and the evolution of the game have sparked debate. He believes that players should not be obsessed with advanced metrics, advocating for a return to the traditional, simpler approach.
"People need to talk about things. People need to have an excuse for things. No, why don't you just go back to 1960 when someone was hitting .200, sucked."
This stance is a reflection of Machado's belief in the purity of the game and a criticism of the analytical-based culture that has taken over baseball.
The Evolution of the Game
The game has indeed evolved, with pitchers throwing harder than ever and analytical tools creating new challenges for hitters. Machado, who debuted in 2012, has witnessed this evolution firsthand.
"Guys were throwing 89, 90 back then. And it went up to 91, 92, up to 94 and now 100. But it's still the same baseball game."
Despite the changes, Machado believes that the fundamentals remain the same, and success still comes down to getting out of struggles and winning ballgames.
A Confident Turnaround
Despite his struggles, Machado remains confident in his ability to turn things around. His homer in the ninth inning, which raised his average back to .178, is a testament to his resilience.
"I think I kind of know things will turn around. This is the big leagues. Nothing is easy."
This confidence, even in the face of adversity, is a hallmark of a true champion, and Machado's mindset is a reminder that baseball is a game of perseverance and belief.
