Despite a promising 27-20 record and third-place standing in the NL West, just 2.5 games behind the Dodgers, the San Diego Padres face growing discontent from their fanbase.
While stars like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. shine, three key players have drawn ire for underperformance, threatening the team’s championship aspirations.*
Xander Bogaerts’ Offensive Decline
Xander Bogaerts, once a cornerstone of San Diego’s $280 million investment, has become a shadow of his former self. The shortstop, who dazzled with a .309 average and 33 HRs for Boston in 2019, is now batting a meager .242 with only 3 homers and 20 RBIs through 47 games. His regression—from a .307 hitter in 2022 to a liability in 2025—has left fans questioning his value.
Hitting behind elite talents like Tatis and Luis Arraez, Bogaerts’ inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities has magnified his struggles, fueling calls for accountability.
Dylan Cease’s Rocky Outings
Acquired to anchor the rotation, Dylan Cease’s inconsistency has been jarring. Despite three recent quality starts, his 4.50 ERA reflects early meltdowns, including a nine-run implosion against Oakland. While his 3.49 ERA excluding that outlier suggests resilience, the right-hander’s expiring contract and shaky command in high-leverage moments have fans skeptical. With San Diego’s pitching depth thinning, Cease must prove he can sustain dominance or risk becoming trade bait.
Wandy Peralta’s Bullpen Struggles
Lefty reliever Wandy Peralta, once a reliable arm, now epitomizes the Padres’ bullpen volatility. His 5.30 ERA over 20 appearances—including a disastrous six-run meltdown against the Yankees—contrasts sharply with his sub-3.00 ERA seasons prior to 2024. Relying on ground-ball-inducing sinkers and changeups, Peralta’s margin for error is slim. When his command falters, as seen in the Yankees’ grand slam debacle, his outings unravel swiftly. For a team eyeing October, his resurgence is critical.
The Path Forward
The Padres’ playoff hopes hinge on these three turning the tide. Bogaerts must rediscover his swing, Cease needs consistency, and Peralta has to reclaim his bullpen reliability. If not, San Diego’s championship window could slam shut prematurely.
