Padres’ Manny Machado reveals reason behind eye-catching new look

Manny Machado is embracing a new hairstyle while he helps the San Diego Padres end the 2026 season on a strong note.

Machado is going through the 15th season of his career in the majors, his eighth with the Padres. He continues to be impactful as a veteran star in the league, helping San Diego remain in the race for a playoff spot in the NL bracket.

With the final month of the regular season underway, Machado decided to update his hairstyle. He trimmed his hair and dyed it blonde, explaining the change to reporters after the Padres’ series opener against the Washington Nationals on Monday night.

“Something different. When I grew my hair out earlier in the year we went on a hot streak,” Machado said.

“Something different. When I grew my hair out earlier in the year we went on a hot streak.”

Manny Machado on his new look, which he said he’s trying for the first time. pic.twitter.com/cEUPY7hKfI

— Darnay Tripp (@DarnayTripp) September 8, 2026

How Manny Machado, Padres played against Nationals

Manny Machado had a solid performance with the new look, helping the Padres take down the Nationals by a 3-2 score to start the three-game set.

San Diego set the tone from the start of the game, taking a 3-0 lead after three innings. Despite Washington’s efforts to come back, the hosts stopped them in their tracks with quality pitching to seal the win.

Nick Pavetta started on the mound as he lasted for five innings and earned the win. He struck out two batters while conceding two hits. Meanwhile, Mason Miller obtained the save for his 34th of the season.

San Diego improved to a 76-68 record on the season, sitting at third place in the NL West Division standings. They are above the San Francisco Giants and the Colorado Rockies while trailing the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Padres will look forward to Game 2 of their series against the Nationals. That contest will commence on Sept. 8 as first pitch takes place at 9:40 p.m. ET.

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