Part 4/9:
Considered by many as frustrating, 2023's results were a stark contrast to the promise demonstrated in 2022. The Padres had secured an elite core, enhanced by key offseason signings like Xander Bogaerts on an 11-year deal worth $285 million. Given their success the previous year, it was baffling to see them falter this season despite showing signs of potential early on.
Inconsistencies were rampant; for example, the Padres could only muster a season-high winning streak of three games before the All-Star break. Despite a strong roster that included returning stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Joe Musgrove, the team often struggled to build momentum, leading to critical losses against division rivals and undermining their postseason aspirations.