Manny Machado delivered a three‑run blast on July 5, 2026, propelling the San Diego Padres to a 5‑2 road victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers and snapping an eight‑game losing streak.
What happened on July 5?
The Padres entered the seventh inning with a 5‑0 lead, thanks to left‑hander JP Sears' five scoreless frames and Machado's decisive homer. Dodgers fans booed Machado earlier in the series, but his swing over the center‑field wall turned the tide. The win halted a potential four‑game sweep and gave San Diego a brief breathing room in the wild‑card race.
Why Machado’s homer matters for San Diego
The three‑run shot not only broke the skid but also reinforced Machado’s role as the team’s offensive catalyst. He told reporters, “We’ve got to play baseball, win games. Everybody’s working their butts off.” His confidence hints at a possible turnaround as the Padres chase a playoff spot, currently four games behind the Cardinals for the third wild‑card berth.
How the rest of the lineup contributed
JP Sears dominated the Dodgers’ lineup, allowing just one soft single in five innings and mimicking the finesse of 1970s Padres lefty Fred Norman. Fernando Tatis Jr. and Luis Campusano added insurance runs earlier in the series, but Machado’s late‑game heroics were the headline. The Dodgers managed only two runs, unable to capitalize on the Padres’ early mistakes.
What’s next for the Padres?
San Diego now faces the Diamondbacks and Blue Jays before the All‑Star break, both teams struggling at the bottom of the standings. Manager Mike Shildt will likely lean on Machado’s bat to keep the momentum alive. The front office, led by A.J. Preller, must decide whether to gamble on trades before the Aug. 3 deadline or trust the current roster to grind out wins.
Machado’s outlook on the trade deadline
When asked about potential moves, Machado shrugged, “I haven’t given it any thought. We’re about to turn the corner.” His focus remains on the day‑to‑day grind, a sentiment echoed by teammates who praised his work ethic. The Padres hope that Machado’s leadership can steer the club out of the slump and into postseason contention.