SAN DIEGO, CA — As Manny Machado approaches a rare MLB milestone, San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt has stepped forward to challenge the negative narratives often associated with the star third baseman, calling him “one of the most misunderstood players in our game.”
In a recent USA Today column by Bob Nightengale, Machado was highlighted for his imminent achievement of becoming only the 12th player in MLB history to record at least 2,000 hits and 350 home runs before turning 33 — a benchmark that strengthens his case for eventual Hall of Fame induction. But as the spotlight grows on Machado’s on-field accomplishments, Shildt is eager to shift attention to the man behind the stats.
“I know the quality of human Manny is. I know Manny’s heart,” said Shildt. “But what’s hard today is the sensitivity, the persecution, of just having the ability to be yourself.”
Shildt argued that Machado’s fiery demeanor and fierce competitiveness are often misinterpreted as arrogance or a bad attitude. Rather than toning down his approach, Shildt says Machado has worked on channeling that intensity constructively while staying true to his identity.
That leadership was recently on full display when Machado publicly stood up for his teammates after a hit-by-pitch on Fernando Tatis Jr. escalated tensions with the rival Los Angeles Dodgers, leading to a dugout-clearing incident. Shildt emphasized that being vocal and protective isn’t something Machado should have to apologize for.
“It’s much more difficult now to have a strong opinion or conviction,” Shildt continued. “Competing hard every day is still OK. You want a commitment by every player to be willing to lay out — that’s what comes with high expectations. I won’t apologize for that, and I don’t think Manny’s going to apologize.”
Now batting .309 with 12 home runs and 46 RBIs on the season, Machado remains the offensive engine for a Padres team currently sitting at 41-35, third in the NL West. As San Diego gears up for a crucial rubber match against the Kansas City Royals, Machado’s consistency and intensity continue to fuel hopes of a postseason push — even as he remains a lightning rod for public debate.
Yet for Shildt and the Padres clubhouse, there’s no confusion: Machado is the heart and soul of the team — misunderstood by many, but not by those who matter most.
