Hosmer Hails Machado as His Ultimate Teammate in MLB Career
In a career spanning 13 years, Eric Hosmer has had the privilege of playing alongside some of baseball’s most elite talents. Yet, as he reflects on his journey, one name stands out above the rest: Manny Machado. The former first baseman, who captured the World Series title in 2015, made it clear during a recent interview on MLB Network just how much he values his time with Machado.
A Bond Forged in the Dugout
Hosmer and Machado shared three full seasons together with the San Diego Padres, along with the majority of a fourth, before Hosmer’s trade to the Boston Red Sox in 2022. Their camaraderie was evident, highlighted by Machado’s sentiments just weeks before Hosmer’s departure. “I’m glad he’s here and he’s going to continue to be here,” Machado expressed in April 2022, adding, “If not, I’m going to be a very mad person.” It’s clear that their relationship went beyond the diamond, showcasing a deep mutual respect and friendship.
Machado’s Impact on the Field
During their time as teammates, Machado established himself as one of the premier players in the game. In his three-plus seasons with Hosmer, Machado posted impressive statistics, batting .287 with an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .874. His power was undeniable, as he belted 112 home runs, including a standout 32-homer season in 2022, just five shy of his career-high. This offensive prowess not only contributed to the team’s success but also earned him the admiration of his peers, particularly Hosmer.
Current Season Challenges
While Machado’s performance in the current season has not mirrored his previous heights—he is hitting .275 with a .795 OPS and 27 home runs—he remains a critical component of the Padres’ lineup. After a challenging September where he struggled with a .188 batting average, Machado is poised to make a significant impact as the team heads into the postseason. His past playoff experiences, especially during the Padres’ 2022 NLCS run, where he hit four homers and recorded an OPS of .910, underline his capacity to deliver in clutch situations.
Looking Ahead to the Postseason
As the Padres gear up for their postseason matchup against the Chicago Cubs, they face a formidable challenge. The Cubs, being the higher seed, will host the series, and the Padres will need to overcome their 1-2 record in Chicago this season. Despite recent struggles, Machado and his teammates are determined to regain their momentum. Hosmer’s glowing endorsement of Machado serves as a reminder of the third baseman’s talent and importance to the Padres’ championship aspirations.
With the postseason looming, all eyes will be on Machado to see if he can recapture his form and lead the Padres through the playoffs, just as he did during his time with Hosmer.
