Padres' Mike Shildt calls Manny Machado most 'misunderstood' player in baseball

The San Diego Padres made a huge signing a few years ago, bringing in third baseman Manny Machado. Since then, things have been on the rise in San Diego, and there is a lot more optimism with the team and the city.

Machado has been a huge positive influence, and his energy has become infectious. He's been the catalyst for the team turning things around, and Padres manager Mike Shildt had high praise for Machado.

In an article from Bob Nightengale of USA Today, he shared comments from Shildt about Machado. In his comments on the superstar third baseman, Shildt called Machado one of the most misunderstood players in the game.

“I think he’s probably one of the most misunderstood players in our game," Shildt said. “I know the quality of human Manny is. I know Manny’s heart. But think what’s hard today is the sensitivity, the persecution, of just having the ability of being yourself. He is learning to channel all of the things that can be a challenge to be that consistent competitor and still be the core of who you are, which is core of who Manny Machado is, which is very special."

Shidt's reference to Machado being misunderstood comes from the baseball world viewing Machado in a negative light. There have been plenty of incidents over the years with Machado, where, for one reason or another, it's easy to view Machado negatively.

But Machado is himself, and Shildt loves him for it. Not shying away and instead being who he is has made Machado into the player he's become, and the leader the Padres need. He's been a major factor in the Padres turning things around, and there's no doubt that the Padres would be worse off without him.

“You want a commitment by every player to be willing to lay out," Shildt said. "And that’s what comes with high expectations. I won’t apologize for that, and I don’t think Manny’s going to apologize.’’

Shildt's comments on Machado signify how much trust and appreciation he has for him. Machado has helped turn baseball around in San Diego, and Shildt has been there right alongside him. 

The 2025 season is Machado's seventh in San Diego, tying his career length with the Baltimore Orioles. He's surpassed his 860-game total with the Orioles, as in 2025, he's up to 885 games played with the Padres.

His role on the team isn't just as a leader, but as the harbinger of success. Machado has helped the Padres become one of the top contenders every year, thanks in large part because he is himself. Machado's effort to become the best is often misunderstood, but Shildt sees otherwise.

He sees Machado as a role model and someone who isn't afraid to do what's necessary to help his team win. His personality is infectious and, since coming to San Diego, has become the heart and soul of the team.