The San Diego Padres beat the New York Mets 7-4 on Wednesday, forcing a rubber match on Thursday. Manny Machado hit a grand slam to break a 2-2 tie in the fifth inning, launching the Padres to victory. As the Wild Card Series approaches, Machado dropped a firm take about September baseball, per AJ Cassavell of MLB.com.

“This was a big one for us. Every game from now on is a big one,” Machado said.

The win brought the Padres within two games of the Los Angeles Dodgers for the NL West lead. They have been within striking distance for weeks, but have not taken advantage. Machado spoke on the division race with just ten days to go.

“I think we had a chance to take it over a long time ago, and we didn’t. So, at this point, it’s just: Worry about us. Go out there and just play our bes

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