Padres Star Heating Up After Offseason Elbow Surgery Recovery

Eva Geitheim | Apr 10, 2024

Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

San Diego Padres' Manny Machado has yet to return to third base, but his hitting continues to improve as he works his way back from elbow surgery. While Machado has hit for the team all season so far, his production is gradually increasing over the last few games.

After hitting under .170 in the first five games of the season, has his batting average up to .204 overall. Tuesday against the Chicago Cubs, he went 2 for 4 with a double.

Padres manager Mike Shildt was complimentary of how Machado has looked over the last couple of games.

“I can’t speak to how he feels, but I can speak to how it looks,” Shildt said, via Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “And it has looked good for the last couple games. He looks comfortable and looks on time and him being able to get on top of that ball and drive it to right field, it was a really good sign for him and us. I know he’s making strides, and it’s a really positive thing.”

Machado has stated that he is unbothered by his elbow when hitting, which likely has helped. As for Machado's return to third base, the former two-time Gold Glove winner said earlier this week that there is no timetable for his return to third base, as he is not 100% yet. He is currently working with the Padres' training staff to return, but there is no expected date for him to be back in the infield.

For now, Machado will continue to contribute in the team's lineup. The Padres face the Chicago Cubs for the third game in their three-game series on Wednesday.