Manny Machado optimistic about Padres' playoff chances after team wins 8th straight game: "We still believe" 

In a dramaric turn of events, the San Diego Padres, led by their star slugger Manny Machado, have ignited hopes of late-season surge towards the playoffs. Following their eighth consecutive victory, the Padres find themselves on the outskirts of the National League Wild Card race, a scenario that appeared very unlikely just a few weeks ago.

Manny Machado, playing through an elbow injury, delivered a heroic performance, hitting two crucial home runs in the team’s latest triumph. His determination to delay surgery until the Padres’ playoff hopes are officially extinguished exemplifies the team’s unwavering spirit.

How is the postseason situation looking for Manny Machado and the Padres?

With just eight games remaining in the regular season, the Padres face an uphill battle. They sit four games behind the Wild Card spot, currently occcupied by the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks, with three other teams ahead of them in the queue.

With just eighth game ramaining, the Padres are still four games behind the wild card spot.

Despite the odds stacked against them, the Padres draw optimism from their recent winning streak and the favorable schedule that they have ahead. Their remaining opponents include teams with below-average records, offering a glimmer of hope for a late-season surge.

While the Padres’ playoff aspirations remain a long shot, their resurgence serves as a testament to their resilience and determination. With each passing game, they aim to defy the odds and make an improbable push for postseason glory.

As Manny Machado aptly put it:

"We still believe in the guys that we have here."

The Padres are on a mission to prove that their 2023 season can still hold a few surprises, and each victory brings them one step closer to turning their playoff dreams into reality.