Padres Have Plan to Ramp Up Manny Machado to Playing Third Base

The San Diego Padres have been playing the start of the new season without the defensive services of star third baseman Manny Machado. Machado is coming off surgery that he had over the offseason on his elbow and it has impacted his ability to take ground balls consistently.

He did take some ground balls before the Padres' game on Sunday against the Los Angeles Dodgers but the veteran still has a way to go before he can take the field. However, the Padres do have a plan in place to get him back to playing at third base. He has been playing the position of designated hitter for the Padres so far.

Manager Mike Shildt gave an update on the status of Machado, saying that he is recovering well.

“He’s recovering well,” Shildt said. “And that’s the biggest thing right now is increasing his volume relative with his hitting and his throwing so we know he can go get ready to go compete in a nine-inning game and do both without a setback. We’re making strides.”

If the Padres can get Machado back into the mix on defense, their infield should get even better. Historically, Machado has been a Gold Glove-caliber talent on the defensive end, giving San Diego more help. Shildt also mentioned that it would be a ramp-up for Machado before he takes over every day.

“Probably a game on, DH, maybe two on, DH,” Shildt said. “I don’t think you’re gonna see this come back to play (and) ride 120 games. You’re gonna see the buildup. That’ll be in collaboration with Manny.”

The Padres have enjoyed the bat of Machado at least, as the third baseman is hitting .254 with four home runs and 10 runs batted in. Once he fully gets back, the Padres will get to see what their full capability will look like.