The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Manny Machado via a trade this past July. Not only did the Dodgers take advantage of a dismantling Orioles, but they were also one of the biggest winners of the trade season. Machado proved useful for Los Angeles as he put up good numbers for the Californian team. He hit for an average of .273 with 42 RBI and 13 home runs during the regular season. Postseason was certainly a different story for him as he batted for a mere .182 and just 3 RBI. His poor playoff performance and questionable on field attitude made it clear that he was just a rental player for the Dodgers. After a World Series lost and a farewell message to the organization Machado is set to find a new team.
Who could sign such a controversial player?
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies could be a primary destination for Machado this offseason. Philadelphia was in the hunt for a playoff spot for most of the regular season. They had a tight race with the Braves until the last weeks of the season as they fell off the standings. They ended their season two games under .500. (80-82). Machado could be just what they need to make it into the postseason. Signing Machado is certainly a possibility for the red pinstripes, here is why.
The Phillies have saved up some money given the relative low-cost of their payroll. Their spare change could be used to sign Machado if they play their cards right. The former Oriole could have some company at Philly as the team is also a front-runner to sign Bryce Harper. The third baseman would be a perfect fit for a team that needs regular run production during the regular season. Even if the move does not work out for them. Machado could be a valuable trading tool for the team.
New York Yankees
The Yankees have been eyeing Machado for a while. Machado could be a valuable piece to a team in need of a few renovations such as the Yankees. All throughout the regular season it was evident that New York was just not on par with their bitter rivals the Red Sox. As a result, they were no match for the 2018 reigning champions during the ALDS. Manny Machado could be just what the doctor ordered to go head to head against Boston.
New York could meet Machado’s contract demands without much of a hustle. They also have a roster that is slowly, but surely gotten used to playing during October on a regular basis. Not everything is perfect for Machado and the Yankees as the bombers will “proceed with caution” towards the infielder. According to SNY’s Andy Martino The Yankees have become “lukewarm” about signing Machado after his postseason stirrings with fans and players alike. He would most likely be the Yankees’ DH as Miguel Andujar has taken a hold of the third bag.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs let their foot of the gas in the late stages of the regular season. Not only that, but the Brewers complicated things more for Chicago with their more than solid postseason push. Chicago’s North side team had to play the tiebreaker and los the division to the Brewers. They then lost against the Rockies and their season was history. Despite, their struggles, they will not acquire Machado due to on field reasons alone.
Cubs’ third baseman Addison Russell was suspended a total of 40 games back in October. He was also placed on administrative leave by the organization. Given his implications, Russell’s implications, it would not be a surprised to see Chicago not re signing the former All-Star. Machado The former Dodger could prove more than useful for the Cubs not only as a replacement for Russell, but also as a powerful offensive weapon for Chicago.
Who Gets Machado?
Anything can happen during the offseason, nonetheless the Phillies look to be favorites to get a hold of Machado’s services. Machado would play a key role on the Phillies rebuilding plan. A move like this makes even more sense as Philadelphia has improved every aspect of their game little by little. They solidified their pitching rotation by acquiring Jake Arrieta this past offseason. It is now time for Philly to step their offensive game up.