Title: Padres Infield Struggles Raise Eyebrows as 2023 All-Star Game Approaches
San Diego — The 2023 season has been an unusual one for the San Diego Padres, as their star-studded infield has failed to produce All-Star caliber performances. Despite the presence of Ha-Seong Kim, who many argue has been deserving of the honor, none of the Padres’ infielders have made the cut.
Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, and Jake Cronenworth, all renowned All-Stars in both 2021 and 2022, were expected to continue their impressive run this season. However, the first half has been disappointing for the Padres, leaving them with a below .500 record as they head into the All-Star break. All three players have struggled, posting numbers well below their career averages.
While the performance has been far from ideal, it presents a clear path to success for the Padres in the second half of the season. If Machado, Bogaerts, and Cronenworth can rediscover their form and replicate their past achievements, the team might be able to turn the tide.
The Padres showcased their potential during their recent Fourth of July victory over the Los Angeles Angels. Jake Cronenworth made history by becoming the first player to register three extra-base hits off Shohei Ohtani in a game. He doubled in his first two at-bats and later hit a home run alongside Xander Bogaerts in the sixth inning. Bogaerts, who recorded his second homer in as many games, finished the day 2-for-3 with a walk. Meanwhile, Machado excelled, going 3-for-3 with a walk.
Joe Musgrove delivered a dominant performance on the mound for San Diego. The pitcher recorded 11 strikeouts over seven innings, allowing only one run.
Despite the team’s struggles, this victory offers a glimmer of hope for the Padres as they look to put their recent dreadful road trip behind them. By leveraging the talents of their high-caliber infielders and receiving stellar pitching performances like Musgrove’s, the Padres have the potential to turn their season around.
As the 2023 All-Star Game approaches, the Padres will have to find a way to unleash the full potential of their star-studded infield. With the right adjustments and a commitment to excellence, the Padres might still have a chance to make a push for the playoffs and prove that their infielders are indeed worthy of All-Star recognition.