Adam Wainwright and Fernando Tatis Jr. faced off in a key wild card matchup between the Cardinals and Padres. Wainwright, 40, is having a standout season and showed no hesitation going right after the 22-year-old star. He mixed in curves and fastballs, eventually striking out Tatis looking with a high fastball. Tatis didn’t like the call and let umpire Phil Cuzzi know. Padres manager Jayce Tingler came out to defend him and got tossed. Meanwhile, Tatis kept showing his frustration, slamming his helmet in the dugout and looking visibly upset.
Later, Manny Machado let Tatis hear it. Cameras caught Machado yelling at him, reminding him that it’s not about individual reactions, especially during a must-win game. Machado’s main message was clear: the team needs Tatis on the field, not getting ejected. The clip sparked conversation about leadership in the Padres’ clubhouse. Machado later acknowledged in an Athletic interview that he’s taken on more of a leadership role as he’s matured—owning past mistakes and trying to guide younger players like Tatis. The moment felt raw but also necessary, as the Padres’ playoff hopes continue to fade.