Can Padres Offense Continue Their Hot Streak Into October?

The San Diego Padres are currently the hottest team in baseball, having won 12 of their last 14 games despite losing their series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers in September 2026. Their offense has been particularly impressive, averaging an astounding 7.3 runs per game in their previous 11 games (since September 9). This performance has the Padres tied for the top NL Wild Card spot.

However, the main question remains: can the Padres continue this hot streak into October? The Padres' offensive success has been remarkable in recent years. In 2024, they went on a tear in the second half, winning 16 of their final 24 games to secure a playoff berth and consecutive 90-win seasons for the first time in franchise history.

They swept the Atlanta Braves in the Wild Card round before facing the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS. Unfortunately, the Padres struggled in those series, failing to score in the final game against the Dodgers. The Padres' offensive woes persisted in 2025 as well, with both teams scoring no more than three runs in each game of their series against the Cubs.

In 2026, the Padres' lineup has become much more sturdy, with strong performances from players like Ty France (batting .299 with 21 homers) and Dustin Harris (batting .338/.368/.437). The addition of Catcher Luis Campusano, outfielder Gavin Sheets, and infielder Samad Taylor have also bolstered the lineup. However, the Padres' offense has been hampered by a lack of star power from their bigger names.

While Fernando Tatis Jr. has been on fire with a .316 batting average, others like Xander Bogaerts, Manny Machado, and Jackson Merrill have struggled. Bogaerts' batting average has dipped to .315, Machado is close to his first 30-homer season since 2023, and Merrill has hit 16 homers this season. If these four stars can perform when it matters most, the Padres' offense could carry them to the postseason.