Machado anchors San Diego’s lineup and clubhouse, even amid postseason disappointments. His leadership and steady production keep the Padres competitive, making him central to any counter-move in the pitching-at-all-costs winter for a franchise aiming to sustain contention.

Machado takes blame for the loss, reinforcing his role as a veteran leader while San Diego navigates a strategic, power-focused offseason.

<p>Machado is described as a steady, safe producer with consistent power and a strong batting average, offering reliability and durability that fantasy managers value in 2026 rosters. His track record supports a stable floor and solid five-category output.</p><p>In drafts, Machado serves as a dependable anchor for infielders, balancing risk with predictable production, and providing a reliable baseline across seasons.</p>

Machado and Tatis Jr. combined for just two hits, reflecting the Padres’ overall offensive drought. Machado remains a cornerstone, but this series underscored the need for consistency and supporting pieces around him in 2026.

Padres star who contributed defensively late in the game but didn’t deliver in the series finale, leaving San Diego short of a rally as Chicago closed out the series.