Machado backs Padres despite losing 'irreplaceable' Soto

Star third baseman Manny Machado remains confident in the San Diego Padres' roster heading into the 2024 campaign despite the offseason trade of Juan Soto to the New York Yankees.

"Obviously, no one can replace Soto. He's a top player in the game, he's irreplaceable. ... But we believe in the guys that we have," Machado said Tuesday, according to KUSI Sports' Allison Edmonds.

The Padres dealt Soto and outfielder Trent Grisham to the Yankees in December for pitchers Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Jhony Brito, Randy Vásquez, and catcher Kyle Higashioka.

"We have the right group of guys to go out there and compete every single day," Machado added.

The 31-year-old underwent surgery on his right elbow last October and said Tuesday he's pleased with his progress as the season draws closer.

"Rehab's been going amazing," Machado said, according to MLB.com's AJ Cassavell. "As of right now, I'm feeling good. No issues with hitting or throwing. It's just a matter of building up my arm."

Machado posted a .782 OPS with 30 home runs and 91 RBIs in 2023 - the first season of an 11-year, $350-million contract extension.

The Padres finished the 2023 campaign with an 82-80 record and missed the playoffs. The club went a combined 11-35 in one-run and extra-innings games last season.