MLB trade rumors: Manny Machado on his way to Arizona?
MLB trade rumors surface that Arizona Diamondbacks are heavily pursuing Manny Machado.
MLB trade rumors for Manny Machado have been buzzing all MLB hot stove season. From talks to heading to the New York Yankees, the St. Louis Cardinals, and a handful of other teams, another squad has emerged the front — at least for now.
The Arizona Diamondbacks — according to MLB trade rumors — are in early talks with the Baltimore Orioles in acquiring the All-Star slugger. You Diamondbacks’ fans may want to hold off on forking large amounts of cash on your Manny Machado customized jerseys just yet, though.
"The Arizona Diamondbacks, though, remain engaged with the Orioles on Machado, the most persistent of the teams interested, according to major league sources. No trade appears close, but for the D-Backs, Machado would be a fascinating addition, possibly the right move at the right time for a franchise ready to win now."
Winning now is what the Diamondbacks are banking on, and order to accomplish that goal of winning a World Series title, they need to replace the power bat of J.D. Martinez. Now, Machado won’t be able to encompass the entirety of Martinez’s production — who slashed .302/.366/.741– but he may be able to fill the void when it comes to home runs and RBI.
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Machado saw a bit of a decline from his previous seasons’ production, but don’t expect that to continue in 2018. Coming into 2017, Machado’s career batting average was over .280, but his mark of .259 last year lowered his total to .279.
It’s hard to believe that Machado is only 25 years old, but it’s unclear if the Diamondbacks are looking to lock him up to a long-term deal or use as a one-year rental. Knowing their window of dethroning the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West — and entire NL for that matter — is a small one, Machado could be the crucial part in accomplishing their ultimate postseason goals.
The Diamondbacks need to make a lasting impression on the youngster, securing him during his prime. Machado is entering his “walk-season” in Baltimore, and his asking price will no doubt be off the charts in 2019. But, having Machado and Paul Goldschmidt locked up at the corner for years to come would keep them in contention, for sure.
Next: Which MLB stars are likely to be traded?
With these MLB trade rumors on Manny Machado stirring, the Arizona Diamondbacks need to make a move for the All-Star and do so quickly.