Machado's Kick Sparks Padres' Rally Over Red Sox

San Diego third baseman's well-timed move helps team overcome 4-run deficit

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:18pm

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Padres third baseman Manny Machado kicked aside a pickoff attempt in the fourth inning, allowing two runners to advance and eventually score. Machado then hit a three-run homer in the next inning to give San Diego the lead as they rallied from a 4-run deficit to beat the Red Sox 8-6.

Why it matters

Machado's heads-up play and clutch hitting proved crucial in the Padres' comeback victory over the Red Sox. As a part-owner of San Diego FC, Machado's athletic versatility has fans wondering if a future in soccer could be in the cards.

The details

With runners on first and second and one out in the fourth inning, Machado took his lead off first base. Red Sox catcher Carlos Narváez attempted a pickoff throw, but Machado jumped and brought his right foot down as the ball arrived, causing it to ricochet into foul territory. The runners advanced to second and third, and one out later, Nick Castellanos singled them both home. Machado then hit a three-run homer in the next inning to give the Padres a 6-4 lead, which they would not relinquish.

  • In the fourth inning, with one out, Machado kicked the pickoff attempt.
  • Later in the fourth inning, Castellanos singled home the two runners Machado had advanced.
  • In the fifth inning, Machado hit a three-run homer to give the Padres a 6-4 lead.

The players

Manny Machado

Padres third baseman and part-owner of San Diego FC, a seven-time MLB All-Star who has won two Gold Gloves, a Platinum Glove, and three Silver Slugger awards.

Carlos Narváez

Red Sox catcher who attempted the pickoff throw that Machado kicked aside.

Nick Castellanos

Padres outfielder who singled home the two runners Machado had advanced in the fourth inning.

Craig Stammen

Rookie manager of the Padres who explained Machado's heads-up play on the pickoff attempt.

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What they’re saying

“I think I picked the wrong sport. FC should probably sign me up.”

— Manny Machado, Padres Third Baseman

“Kind of got me by surprise, saw the ball coming in, trying to jump out of the way and as it came down I had perfect timing.”

— Manny Machado, Padres Third Baseman

“He doesn't have to beat the throw, he only has to beat the first baseman. It was just a bad throw that hit his ankle.”

— Craig Stammen, Padres Manager

What’s next

Machado's performance has sparked speculation about a potential future in soccer, with fans wondering if San Diego FC might consider signing the multi-talented athlete.

The takeaway

Manny Machado's heads-up play and clutch hitting proved pivotal in the Padres' comeback victory, showcasing his athletic versatility and leaving fans to wonder if a career in soccer could be in his future.