What are the Padres' playoff chances in 2023? Evaluating San Diego's slim postseason hopes

As the postseason approaches, the San Diego Padres find themselves battling increasingly unfavorable odds. The team's playoff prospects remain uncertain, with the 2023 season set to end on Oct. 2.

The Padres (77-79) are third in the NL West and have reached a decisive juncture in their season.

The San Diego Padres clinched a 12-2 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday, which breathed new life into their fading playoff aspirations and offered a timely lift in team morale.

Unfortunately for them, their performance on the road adds an obstacle to their playoff path. They have a less-than-impressive 33-42 away record this season.

This adds to the pressure on the Padres as they get ready for the road games ahead. They will be facing off against division rivals and fellow wildcard contenders, the San Francisco Giants.

What are the Padres' playoff chances in 2023?

The San Diego Padres are five games behind the final wild-card position, making each of their six remaining games virtually a must-win.

In their recent series against the Cardinals, the Padres squandered multiple scoring opportunities. This has been a recurring theme that has haunted them throughout the season.

Even more troublesome is their winless record in extra-inning games. The team has failed to win all 12 games that have stretched to extra innings this season. If they had secured a couple more wins, they would be in a more favorable state.

However, the Padres are not out of it yet. Their fate will be impacted by how other wild-card hopefuls fare in their remaining games. The Cincinnati Reds and Miami Marlins will also be pushing for wildcard spots.

As they gear up for the last week of the regular season, the Padres are at a crossroads. Each at-bat and each pitch carries monumental significance.