Manny Machado has been, by far, the most discussed name on the MLB trade market in 2018. But that might be coming to an end soon.
ESPN’s Buster Olney reported that, according to a source, the Baltimore Orioles are on par with a team at the “10-yard-line” when it comes to dealing the star shortstop.
Source indicated last Sunday his sense was that the Orioles were at the 35-yard-line and driving in the Machado trade conversations. Same source this Sunday: "10-yard-line." PHI, Brewers, Dodgers waiting for the goal line call. As mentioned yesterday, Orioles have narrowed focus.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) July 15, 2018
In addition to the Philadelphia Phillies, Milwaukee Brewers, and Los Angeles Dodgers, we’ve also seen recent reports indicating that the New York Yankees have had discussions around Machado.
Certainly, it’s easy to understand why Machado is drawing such interest. Entering Sunday, he was hitting .313/.384/.566 with 23 home runs on the season. He also plays both shortstop and third base very well. That said, his status as a free agent and likely rental player is certainly giving interested teams some hesitation.
Expect to hear more rumors and speculation on a potential deal right up until the time that he’s actually traded.