SUNDAY: The Dodgers and Brewers are at the forefront of the Machado derby, and the Indians are also “in the mix,” Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic tweets.
SATURDAY: It’s possible Manny Machado’s tenure with the Orioles will come to an end as early as this weekend, according to the Baltimore Sun’s Eduardo A. Encina, who reports that seven teams have made offers for the soon-to-be free agent. The Dodgers have put forth the most enticing proposal, Encina hears, with the Diamondbacks, Brewers, Phillies, Braves, Indians and Cubs (in that order) coming in behind them. But the offers are “very close” in value, per Encina, so any of those other six clubs could leapfrog Los Angeles to land Machado prior to the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.
Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com passes along slightly different information than Encina, suggesting the Indians are currently in last place among the previously mentioned seven teams in the race for Machado. Cleveland has made an offer, Kubatko reports, but a source tells him other clubs are “more active” in the sweepstakes. Interest in Machado goes beyond the seven teams mentioned, Kubatko adds, as several others have at least “checked in” on him.
It “seems unlikely” Baltimore will deal Machado this weekend, Encina writes, but it’s all but guaranteed to happen sometime this month. After all, the Orioles (24-64) own the majors’ worst record, and they’ll either have to trade the 26-year-old Machado in the next three-plus weeks or watch him leave for draft-pick compensation in free agency. The superstar shortstop/third baseman is sure to reel in one of the richest contracts in the history of the sport once he hits the open market, and he has helped his future earning power by batting a healthy .310/.381/.560 with 21 home runs and nearly as many walks (40) as strikeouts (50) in 375 plate appearances this season.
If the Dodgers are the team that upgrades at short with Machado this summer, it may come at the expense of either outfield prospect Alex Verdugo or young pitcher Yadier Alvarez. The Orioles have shown interest in both of those farmhands – two of the finest talents in the minors – though the Dodgers’ offers so far have not included either player, Encina relays, and Kubatko writes that LA has not made Verdugo available. Considering their wealth of offensive talent, it’s arguable the Dodgers won’t even need Machado as they seek a sixth straight National League West title and a second consecutive NL pennant. But acquiring him would still be a boon to them and a blow to the rival Diamondbacks, who lead LA by one game in the NL West and haven’t gotten high-end production from their shortstops this year.
Like the D-backs, none of the Brewers, Phillies or Braves have fared well at short. The Indians and Cubs have, on the other hand. But Machado could be a third base solution for the Indians, who have the great Francisco Lindor at short and would be able to shift fellow superstar Jose Ramirez from the hot corner to second base to make room for Machado. In doing so, the Tribe would presumably relegate struggling second baseman Jason Kipnis to a bench role. The Cubs, meanwhile, have an impressive-looking setup at second (Javier Baez), short (Addison Russell) and third (the currently injured Kris Bryant), so it’s unclear where Machado would fit, though there has long been speculation about Russell going to Baltimore in a deal. However, Russell is under affordable control through 2020 and would be a lot to give up for a rental player – albeit one who’d serve as an upgrade for a Chicago team which trails NL Central-leading Milwaukee by 1 1/2 games.
BaltoBaseball0520
Just curious, anyone know what happens if he’s traded before the all star game?
LetsGetRickarded
He suits up in AL gear but cannot play for them IIRC
brewfan27
same thing happened to Jeff Samardzija
in 2014
benfiorica
he is ineligible to play but will be recognized as an all star at the game
2012orioles
Would he count as the Orioles player? Or would another representative be selected?
bravesandcrewfan
I think so… But I could be wrong. He’s the only fit rep, that’s for sure.
benfiorica
i’m pretty sure another there would not be another orioles player required
brandons-3
He’d be the Orioles representative. When Shark was dealt from Cubs to A’s he dressed in the ASG Jersey. I don’t know if that’s the rule, or if that was a player’s/team decision. Wonder if Machado would represent Baltimore one more time as a nod to the fans.
lonestardodger
Samardzija was the Cubs only allstar in 2014 and he wore the AL HRD/ASG uniform in the AL dugout and was ineligible to play
breckdog
I am not sure if he counts as a team rep. I know jeff samardzjia was dressed in a generic nl uniform. He was currently an al player but was elected as an nl all star.
Adam6710
What if he is traded to an AL team– the Indians, for example?
Aaron Sapoznik
We won’t know officially until Sunday but Machado had a big lead (123,ooo votes) over the Astros Carlos Correa as the voting came to a close earlier this week. If Machado’s lead holds and he is traded to an American League club prior to the ASG he would be the starting AL shortstop and represent his new club even if that team (like the Indians) named him their new starting third baseman.
andrewgauldin
I remember this being an issue with Jeff Samardzija when he was dealt to Oakland. But I don’t remember what happened
brewfan27
he was recognized as an all star but could not play
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
This was total bs. He was an all star traded before the all star game. And wasnt allowed to play for the ALL
wrigleywannabe
You’ll think that until he goes to your team and gets hurts repping another
hiflew
Nothing will happen if he is traded to an AL team, he’ll play just like he would have otherwise. If he goes NL, he will probably just be in uniform like Samardzija in 2014. Although they may change it since the game is back to being just an exhibition. It won’t hurt anything for fans to be allowed to see Machado to play on either side.
Ry.the.Stunner
Wrong. He’s ineligible to play in the game. He’d suit up in a generic AL jersey and would be recognized as an All-Star with the Orioles, but could not play.
Same happened with Samardzija. He suited up and was recognized as an NL All-Star, but he was not allowed to play.
EndinStealth
With Shark the game “counted”. Its just an exhibition again. It would be dumb to sit him. Especially since he will be voted in.
Ry.the.Stunner
Those are the rules. If you’re traded to another league before the deadline, you’re ineligible to play.
hiflew
Yes, and that is why I used the words “may change it” BTW, starting out a comment with the word wrong is an unpleasant way to talk to someone and kinda makes you look like a jerk.
MaverickDodger
I don’t know the up to date answer because all of the responses are true. It’s just that with Shark, the game decided the Home Field during the World Series. So maybe they could be flexible and allow Manny to play should be be dealt to an NL team before the AllStar Game
MatthewWHall
Cliff Lee was traded from Seattle to Texas on July 1, 2010 and he suited up in the ASG as a Ranger.
msjrn509
STILL GOES UNDER NEW TEAM
Caseys.Partner
Beat writer BS.
jbaker3170
Because you know more than them, right?? Then shine your knowledge on us all oh wise one
JKB 2
Oh Casey so tell us how that is wrong
frankiegxiii
Well it was reported in more than one article that the Dodgers offered Verdugo, Alvarez, and Heredia for Machado and in this report it says that neither Verdugo or Alvarez has been offered for Machado, it would be extremely hard for both those reports to be accurate
Caseys.Partner
“Roch Kubatko…. passes along slightly different information than Encina, suggesting the Indians are currently in last place ”
So the plot thickens.
Did these two beat writers team up together to “rate the offers” or was the rating of offers performed by their “source”?
Was a Fangraphs type metric of expected future WAR used to rate the offers?
Enquiring minds want to know.
its_happening
Casey has a valid point there. If beat writers can team up to cover up the rampant steroid use in the 90’s they can certainly “team up” to make this up.
Mattimeo09
Yeah I’m sure it only took two writers to cover up the Steroid Rise right?
gson
The Indians have made it clear.. Francisco Mejia, the O’s # 1 target, is off the table.. The Indians should be in last place as this kid is a flat out hitting machine that would transform the catching spot for the O’s from one of their worst spots to one of their best.. Mejia is under control for six years as well.. Think of Gleyber with the tools *arm, feet, bat) to play catcher..
dbacksrs
Come to Arizona.
bhambrave
He can come to Arizona… on September 6th, when the Braves come to town.
Acuña Matata
Good god no.
bbritton209
No don’t want him this year. Go after him in the off season. I need in over paying for. Rental. Stay the course
2012orioles
Hopefully Dodgers and dbacks get in a bidding war against each other. I think having Manny could be the difference in winning the division.
Philliesfan4life
I hope Arizona gets him and they win the division
wiggysf
I hope AZ gets him and my Giants win the division. But if I had to choose, yeah screw the Dodgers
Palehose23
Cmon Brewers
tim815
Hiura as an Orioles DH. Cool.
bravesandcrewfan
I don’t wanna give up keston unless it’s for degrom or syndergaard. He has too much potential for a rental. I’d be OK with seeing burnes go, but I really wanna keep freddy Peralta and keston Hiura unless they’re for a controllable big name. Hot take, freddy is in our playoff rotation.
mackows2
no way Hiura gets traded for a rental, even if its Machado.
Burnes, Ray, and lower level PTBNL
mackows2
meant to put Arcia in there as well.
Joe Kerr
That’s too much for a rental
augold5
They’re not trading Arcia for a rental, who would they play at SS next year?
thegreatcerealfamine
Keston+ what other players to get deGrom or Syndergaard, cause it’s gonna take a huge package.
kgreene3
Machado is not coming to Milwaukee, Stearns won’t give up that much for a 3-4 month rental. He’s much smarter than that.
mackows2
what are you considering “too much”? Or are you one of those who likes to hoard prospects. Tell me, who was the last Brewers prospect to come up and be an above average contributor. (drafted by and developed in Brewers minors). Braun?
Are you still bitter about giving up Michael Brantley to get CC? Or think Greinke wasnt worth Cain, Jeffress, Escobar, and Odorizzi?
hiflew
Smart is in the eye of the beholder. Machado or another “rental” will be the difference between winning the division and having to play in a single game playoff.
thegreatcerealfamine
I was answering to bravesandcrewfan. Why are you bringing up Machado when my post was about what it would take to get deGrom and Syndergaard?
bravesandcrewfan
Keston+Burnes+top 10 org +top 20 org likely. And the only trade I currently regret now is losing Segura for chase. Chase is great, but our situation would be so much clearer if Segura was our shortstop.
11Bravo
Jimmy Nelson, Khris Davis, Jonathon Lucroy, and Scooter Gennett were all drafted and developed by the Brewers. Not to mention the 4 you listed above.
As far as hoarding prospects I think fans are just disappointed to see the Royals make two WS and the Brewers only make the NLCS after that trade. I thought it was a great trade as these windows of opportunity can close anytime.
kgreene3
I’d love to see him come to Milwaukee but Stearns wants longer control from his deals. This team is already the best team in the NL so I can see them making a handful of moves but not for Manny. From what I’ve read their asking price is insane.
BrandonGregory74
FWIW the Brewers let Gennett go for nothing essentially. While they may develop guys well that was a bad decision.
kgreene3
Villar out played Gennett for the job
tim815
You realize nobody’s flipping a useful starter for Brett Phillips and Desi Orimoloye, right?
bravesandcrewfan
No, but I don’t want a useful starter for Phillips and orimoloye. Those would be side pieces plus ray or burnes or something for Machado or those 3+hiura for degrom.
Phattey
They would trade a starter for them, better to get something for a player that’s leaving rather than get nothing at all
Solaris601
If I was Theo Epstein I’d go ahead and make that deal sending Addison Russell to BAL for Machado. If CHC doesn’t retain Machado beyond this season it won’t be difficult or expensive for them to sign a SS who can give them similar or better production than Russell.
Cubbie75
no
ABCD
Hell no!
Cubbie991
Machado is a liability defensively at short. He is dead last for shortstops in defensive runs saved. Any idea who is #1 in all of baseball in defensive runs saved at short? That’s right, Addison Russell. Plus batting over .270 and under control until 2020. Its a no brainer. Keep Russell and go after Harper in the off season.
Priggs89
Nobody is going to pay Heyward $20M+ per year as a free agent. He’s not opting out unless he absolutely hates playing in Chicago. So where are you playing Harper?
bravesandcrewfan
Trade Heyward and eat contract and be crippled for years, but they may get good prospects.
rondon
Heyward has been killing it for the last month. Still, no one will take on that contract. There is no trading Tucker at this point.
Ry.the.Stunner
The Cubs don’t need an offensive upgrade, they lead the NL in runs scored.
Djones246890
Better production? He’s hitting .282. He probably deserves to be an All-Star.
brewcrewbernie
As a Brewer fan I want Machado, but I also don’t. Definitely not if we have to give up Keston Hiura.
Ironman_4life
Does manny put the dodgers back in the ws?
sidewinder11
The NL is wide open this year so it’s possible. I can’t imagine it’d be enough to beat any of the AL powerhouses though unless Kershaw comes back at 100% and the bullpen figures it out
dgrfns
Still dont know why Dodgers want him. Taylor’s WAR at SS is much higher than Machado. I think O’s are throwing Dodger’s in there to try and drive up the price. I mean who sits in LA to let Machado play?
Kenleyfornia74
Easy. Forsythe will have to go back in any Machado trade for finacial reasons. Shift Taylor to 2B. Machado plays SS
dgrfns
If Forsythe were the starter at 2B that would make sense but Muncy is. Are you gonna sit Muncy?
Ry.the.Stunner
Muncy has played a grand total of 8 games at 2B this year. He’s played the large majority of his games at 1B.
dgrfns
Roberts named Muncy the starter at 2b this week. If Muncy plays 1b then Bellinger goes to CF and Pederson sits. Kike can’t crack the lineup and his WAR is equal to Manny.
Kenleyfornia74
Muncy 1B. Bellinger CF
BlueSkyLA
Taylor can play practically anywhere.
dgrfns
Taylor can play anywhere. Machado can’t. Who sits to let Manny play?
bravesandcrewfan
Forsythe
BlueSkyLA
Good choice, and a fair bet he is traded if the Dodgers get Machado.
Blue_Painted_Dreams_LA
The Dodgers are so versatile to be honest it doesn’t really matter. If they traded for Machado, which I don’t personally see, they’ll still mix and match. It’s not like they have 8 guys that they write in everyday no matter what. It’d allow them to give Kemp more days off. Same with Turner. It’d probably mean they sit Puig v LH’s. Taylor’s moves to 2nd. Muncy 1st. Bellinger to the OF. It would protect from potential regression from Kemp/Muncy. And usually the old saying goes things tend to work themselves out.
BlueSkyLA
Yeah, the Dodgers are such a moveable feast we can debate endlessly about who plays where if they got Machado, and nobody is wrong or right unless and until it happens and those decisions are made. I’m not totally convinced they need him either but I think the FO has to also think about the consequences of him going to Arizona. For sure he’s be an impact bat in the middle of the order no matter where he goes but for the Dodgers at least the defensive alignment doesn’t demand him since they can play that five different ways and they all have their merits.
leftcoaster
Machado will be a Brewer.
Philliesfan4life
I think Degrom will be a brewer
norcalblue
I hope so.
xabial
“Wow, the talks are for real this time? 7 more than I thought they had.”
Just kidding 😉
murphy
DO YOU HAVE A LIFE?
xabial
My bet is, he doesn’t get traded. I honestly believe Machado situation is going to be butchered from the top. No evidence, gut feeling. Easy on the caps.
murphy
Your mom was here.
dorfmac
no evidence? how about 20 years of angelos ownership and bungling trades. no one should be surprised if your prediction is correct, but there’s plenty of evidence as to why.
niched
The Os made very good trades when MacPhail was GM. Seems to be easier to make good trades when running a team that isn’t competitive
hiflew
If there are that many offers, I guarantee you there will be some people here very surprised at the package going back to the Orioles. The more offers means the higher price. He’s gonna end up getting dealt for a Francisco Mejia type prospect led package. This is not going to be a JD Martinez cheap deal where it’s really only one team bidding.
Polish Hammer
No way Mejia leaves Cleveland in this short rental with no hope of resigning Manny.
agentx
If BAL handles negotiations properly (and I know that’s a big if), CLE may be enticed to include Mejia if BAL threw in some other enticement, such as taking back Kipnis and that contract, or maybe even expanding the deal to include Mejia+ from CLE for Machado and Britton.
As others have pointed out, the Baltimore FO probably is not capable of that savvy a negotiation. But it is remotely possible.
hiflew
Yes there is a way if BAL plays it correctly. Mejia was traded for “rental” Jonathan Lucroy until he vetoed the deal, so it’s not like they would NEVER trade him. Besides, I didn’t say Mejia specifically, I said a “Mejia-type” prospect meaning a top 20 prospect + some. Could be Soroka from the Braves or Luzardo from the A’s or a Sixto Sanchez from the Phils. If it starts looking like the Braves are going to get Machado, the Phils would be stupid to not offer Sanchez to not only get him, but to keep him off the Braves. Same with the Dodgers and Verdugo. It’s not only about getting him for 3+ months, it is about not letting your rival get him for the same 3+ months. A division title is more valuable than ANY prospect.
Polish Hammer
Traded two years ago in A ball and far from where he is today. Traded for what they thought was the missing piece, not a player that plays two positions, that are filled by two of the best players in all of baseball. Traded for a guy they could extend, not a contract they could never ever offer. So other than that it’s all the same…
And teams that trade mega pieces just to spite rivals are just plain dumb.
Burgeezy
Lucroy had 1 and a half years left, Machado does not. You’re not comparing apples to apples
hiflew
I got mixed up thinking about the Lucroy trade last year. Regardless, half a year of Machado is probably worth a year and a half of Lucroy.
hiflew
You are taking what I wrote down the wrong path bub. They are not trading to spite anyone. They are trading to keep them off the rival team. If you are Arizona, would you rather play the Dodgers with Machado or without Machado? The only way to ensure he doesn’t go to LA is get him yourself. Then you help yourself AND hurt them. You are not spiting anyone.
User 589131137
It wasn’t just LuCroy that the Indians were after: there were bullpen players they targeted as well..
BTW: Loved how that turned out for the liar. If you don’t want to play in Cleveland, just say so. Don’t make up some ridiculous excuse that everyone can see through..
usafcop
The Orioles already have Chance Sisco waiting at catcher….not sure Mejia is what they need most….
RedRooster
I doubt whether Chance Sisco and his .625 OPS would block anyone from getting regular playing time.
Polish Hammer
That is trading to spite the rival, same difference. You don’t give up a Kings ransom to keep a guy away from a rival; good way to set your organization back a lot.
mackows2
lucroy wasnt a 3.month rental as he had another full year under contract
jbigz12
I doubt chance sisco is a finished product as a rookie. Might want to think twice about writing him off.
c1234
Brewers needs to get a pitcher…not machado seriously if they get a stud pitcher they will win the division there offense will always be there.
Polish Hammer
And Cleveland needs to go after a reliever and then an OF bat, not this guy.
smooveb330
“There [sic] offense will always be there”?? They’re ninth in the NL in runs scored and they’ve been shut out 11 times, lots of room to improve that offense.
Aaron Sapoznik
I can’t see the Cubs winning the Machado sweepstakes, especially in light of The Epsteins latest revelation that the club is not looking to add position players or offense as the summer trade deadline approaches. The Cubs need pitching first and foremost, be it an impacting southpaw reliever like Brad Hand or a starting pitcher to replace Tyler Chatwood and/or insurance for injured head case Yu Darvish.
Either way, the Cubs will likely need to part with a talented young player or two from their active MLB roster in order to acquire a formidable pitcher this summer with a farm system already depleted by prior trades and promotions, the season ending injury to #1 prospect RHP Adbert Alzolay and the recent suspension of it’s #3 talent in RHP Oscar De La Cruz.
c1234
The whole cubs farm system for machado wouldn’t be enough I agree some mlb pieces would have to go Baltimore’s way but I don’t see cubs as a great fit
c1234
In my opinion the dodgers have the best shot
RedRooster
O’s shouldn’t even be targeting MLB pieces at this point. They need low guys with upside.
Cubbie Steve
Funny and ignorant
Cubbie Steve
Yeah it doesn’t really make sense with 4-6 starting caliber OFers and a full infield.
I just don’t see Russell for 2-3 months of Machado. But if Russell doesn’t leave, Machado slots in at 3B and Bryant goes to the OF.
Then the OF picture looks like this: Bryant, Schwarber, Almora, Happ, Heyward, and Zobrist.
The IF: Machado, Russell, Baez, Bryant, Zobrist, Happ, Rizzo.
I don’t see more than one of those guys leaving without pitching thrown in as well.
But I also don’t think the Cubs bump Chatwood from the rotation. I think he deserves to be, but I don’t think they do it. Have no clue how the Darvish stuff ends either, but my view of rotation improvements is bleak right now.
My guess on the Cubs offer is something like Montgomery, Maples, Bote, Caratini….maybe Happ.
Everybody would like Machado’s bat. Not sure about his defense. And definitely don’t care for any kind of hefty price tag for a 2-3 month rental.
rondon
I agree that the Cubs need pitching. Not Machado. But I find it really hard to believe they’d trade Montgomery. They need him badly at this point.
Paul Heyman
Just watch him be a marlin by the deadline. Jk Machado will either stay or be on a contending team that loses in the first or second round.
RedRooster
Still convinced he isn’t traded
Michael Chaney
It wouldn’t surprise me if the Orioles manage to botch this
Solaris601
I actually would be shocked if they DIDN’T botch it, and that’s no commentary on the front office. I could see the FO putting together the best deal possible, and Angelos vetoes it at the last minute.
RedRooster
I can see that too. Like maybe the “best deal possible” comes from the Yankees and Angelos vetoes it because he doesn’t want to trade their best player to the Yankees even though that would hurt the Yankees a lot more because they would lose Machado after the season and have to trade impact prospects then face those impact prospects playing for a division rival for potentially the next decade.
PS: I don’t see the Yankees trading for Machado. Their infield is gold as it is.
azmacky
If Baltimore really wants a nice return on him do it now. The longer teams wait the less I would offer. Baltimore F O is really messed up.
Yanks2
Does anyone here think Machado will go to the Phillies?
RedRooster
In free agency, possibly. In trade, no.
shelteredsoxfan
Depends on who you ask. 99% of MLBTR commenters will say no, but Casey’s Partner will tell you otherwise
Priggs89
I don’t think it’s that farfetched. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make JP Crawford available, and he’s probably the “best” (aka highest rated) prospect they can get for a Machado rental. I don’t think his value is anywhere near what it once was, but maybe they can convince Baltimore he’s still a great prospect. Even if Machado doesn’t resign in Philly, I don’t think they’ll end up missing Crawford too much in the long run.
Jimcarlo Slaton
I can’t see them essentially giving up on Crawford after 163 MLB at-bats.
For two months of Machado, I think the Phillies would need controllable players included..
Polish Hammer
I could see it in the sense they get him in there early and hope he likes it enough to resign on a new deal.
Niekro
I think people are way over reacting with Swanson hes been one of the best defensive SS this year and actually leads guys like Simmons in DRS
ffjsisk
If Swanson is leading Andrelton Simmons in any defensive stat, I’m not trusting it.
Niekro
You dont trust DRS? Is this site just full of brain dead trolls now?
ffjsisk
Andrelton Simmons gets to more balls than any shortstop in baseball. If you are telling me that you think Dansby is a better defender than Simmons than you sir, are the brain dead troll.
itslonelyatthetrop
Trade him to the Eagles for Nick Foles. Oh, wait- wrong thread.
SupremeZeus
IMO, seems like a strategic leak to try to get the Dbacks to up their offer. Their need and desire to acquire Machado is much greater than any other team mentioned. I still say the Dodgers win the division even if the Dbacks land Machado. Hope Machado stays healthy while the O’s carry out the public bartering the next few weeks.
inkstainedscribe
Swanson could be the main piece heading to Baltimore. Camargo moves to SS and Manny plays 3B. Or Machado gets his wish, plays SS, and Camargo stays at 3B.
bhambrave
I don’t think Swanson would be in a deal for Machado, but it makes some sense. Next year Camargo could play SS and Riley could play 3B, or they could sign a FA SS or 3B. Baltimore would prefer a good SP prospect to Swanson.
ffjsisk
Swanson should be the main piece. But the longer he struggles, the less anyone wants him.
FOmeOLS
Machado is a terrible Shortstop, but a magnificent third baseman. It’s amazing how big a difference there is.
Id like to see Manny in AZ, but the DBacks don’t have anything to offer except the injured Duplantier.
The Orioles’ insistence on two “MLB-Ready pitchers” is going to come back to bit them in the butt. No one is going to pay that.
Sky14
Is Alvarez still considered one of the “.. finest talents in the minors“? He seems to have completely fallen apart since last year.
jbigz12
+1. Guy has no control. To put him in the same sentence as verdugo really surprises me.
Blue_Painted_Dreams_LA
Idk maybe I’m different in the evals of players. Verdugo is a very good player. I’m not sure if he’s a first division regular in cf. He’s more so a corner guy that lacks power. I feel like he’ll have a pretty good career just not sure he’s an elite talent. What I do believe is he’s not in the Seager or Bellinger tiers. Alvarez well he makes sense if you believe in his stuff. The issue becomes if he’s you believe in him as a SP. I think to be honest his stuff falls into the area where you can wait it out to see if he shakes as a SP or you decide his stuff is so special his value is as a backend guy. There’s something to be said about potential ceilings. Verdugo is somewhat a lower ceiling higher floor and Alvarez is a higher ceiling lower floor as a SP. So is Alvarez one of the finest talents? Depends on your point of view and how you value positions and upside. The Dodgers don’t really value non elite SP arms/potential pen arms. I think as a Dodgers fan it’s safe to say both will get traded. I don’t think Verdugo fits in the NL West and Alvarez seems to be a logical flip as the Dodgers will be looking at a roster crunch come this offseason. But really Verdugo is the Dodgers most tradeable chip.Do I believe Alvarez is a top talent? I think he’s a potential guy as a closer/back end pen role. I just cringe if you try to develop him as a SP.
Cam
To be completely honest, I think both Verdugo and Alvarez are overrated as prospects anyway – and I’m a proud Dodgers fan.
Alvarez has one thing going for him – a fluid 100mph fastball. Problem is, he has no idea where it’s going, and his only decent secondary pitch is as wild as the rest. He’s a long way from contributing in the big leagues.
As for Verdugo, the hit tool is there, but no real power projection, no speed, and no elite glove in the outfield. Plus huge questions around his makeup and coachability.
BlueSkyLA
If the Dodgers are going to give up one of them, at this point, I’d rather it be Alvarez. Hard throwers are becoming a dime a dozen, while real pitchers are becoming scarce. Verdugo at least is ready to play in the majors, which at a minimum makes him valuable as OF depth or a 4th.
its_happening
The emergence of Muncy has had to have changed the perspective of LA’s need for Machado. They probably still want Manny, but LA may be less likely to give up a ton to get Machado because of Muncy and the health of Turner, emergence of Kemp etc.. An infield of Turner, Taylor, Muncy and Bellinger, with Kemp, Puig and Pederson is not bad. Not bad at all.
Dodgers may be looking at a bullpen arm or two if the bats swing well. I think LA will wait it out unless they crumble between now and the deadline. Or an injury to a starting player will get them to be very serious about a deal for Machado.
Blue_Painted_Dreams_LA
I agree Cam although I don’t think Verdugo is really overrated. I think most people have a feel on him, bc he does have some value. It’s just not future star value. Which he who knows could change if he were willing to make the adjustments. The simple fact remains though that he’s been made expandable as Toles returned and by the play of Diaz. The OF is pretty deep and crowded.
BlueSkyLA
The price for Machado is going to be a top-5o prospect and maybe another from a lower shelf, depending on the top-50 player. If it’s someone as developed as Verdugo he should be enough. If it’s Alvarez then the Dodgers probably have to throw in someone further down the list. Year after year we see how this is the cost of doing business in July. Muncy gives the Dodgers some unexpected space but I suspect they’d really like to play Taylor more in CF so they can sit Hernandez more often against RHP.
Blue_Painted_Dreams_LA
I think Muncy does give them a different perspective yes. I think on the other hand though the performance of Forsythe does also. One assumption that can’t be made is that this FO is sold on Muncy’s defensive viability at second. The more I look at this I can see the FO wanting Machado as it lengthens the lineup and strengthens the overall defense, even though there are significant questions about him defensively at SS. Joc’s not really a CF anymore and Muncy is not really a second baseman. But Taylor/Bellinger sure can go get it CF and Bellinger in general in the OF and Kikè/Taylor are way better options at second. It also again protects from Turner’s health and potential regression from Kemp/Muncy/ Joc. So granted, I think there’s a limit to what the Dodgers would be willing to give up, but again it circles around to the fact that there will be a significant roster crunch this offseason and the Dodgers might be more willing to move certain guys they had been unwilling to do so with in the past.
BlueSkyLA
A good summary. Also, looking at the depth chart around the infield, the shallowest position is 3B. Machado gives them a quality option to back up and rest Turner.
mattcubs
I’d rather the Cubs hold on to Addy at this point. He is the better shortstop and maybe, just maybe, he is beginning to live up to his offensive potential. If they get him without Russell being included, Bryant would presumably move out to left? This negates Schwarber and Happ though–so maybe one of them? Too steep on all 3 accounts, I believe. Certainly not Almora. He’s killing it out in center and at the leadoff spot.
Their offense hasn’t been an issue, it’s been the starting pitching.
downsr30
My trade offer as the Cubs would be Ian Happ, Victor Caratini and whatever it takes from the farm system for Machado and Brach. Put Machado at 3B, Bryant in RF, platoon Heyward and Almora in CF, and you can also put Bryant in LF on days where you want to sit Schwarber.
dewssox79
stop. ian happ and caratini? the farm? what farm? your top pitcher is hurt and the other one is swimming in masking agents.
jorge78
Most over rated player ever…..
niched
Not ever. That would be Jason Heyward followed by a bunch of other guys. But I agree, even with the breakout season Manny is kind of overrated. Still he’s quite young and seems to be only getting better.
Jameison R.
Yep,.he’s so over rated seven MLB teams are structuring trades to try to aquire his services.
R.D.
The Dodgers must be offering an awful big haul for Manny. Without their top prospects involved I wonder if Buehler’s name came up.
easymoney
Buhler haha lmao
WilliamA
Trying to figure out what the DBacks offer would be. I see Marte’s name, which seems insane considering the team-friendly extension, his solid offense (after the awful start), and what Fangraphs rates as great defense. Why would they trade him for a rental, especially when they aren’t a top FA destination (I feel like the trade for a rental thing makes a little more sense for a team like LAD). I could see trading Lamb for him if Machado is willing to play 3B. The O’s need lefty power, which somehow they failed to sign when their park is made for it. Anyone who has been watching Ariz closely have any info/rumors on this?
RedRooster
Trading for a rental doesn’t make any more sense for the Dodgers because you could just as easily argue that if they are such an attractive FA destination, they can just wait until the offseason and sign him for nothing but $. When you are trading for someone like Machado, you are trading for what he can do for you now, not because you want to sign him.
Anyway, I’m pretty sure that if the acquiring team tells Manny “you’re playing 3rd base,” he’ll do it without much frustration. Whether or not he’ll sign there is a story for another day.
WilliamA
Well, there is definitely a view among some baseball people that trading for a rental can give you a leg up over other prospective teams because you may be able to build up a relationship/familiarity. I’m not saying that always proves true or anything, but I’m not sure teams look at the investment in a rental as purely “we get him rest of season and then have exactly the same chance of signing him as we would have without trading for him.”
RedRooster
It might give you a bit of an advantage, but it would be marginal at best. It’s not the type of thing you trade the prospects Machado is going to cost in a trade for. If you aren’t ok with him leaving after the season, don’t trade for him.
elmore80
If I was the Braves I would go to the Twins and offer them the offer for Machado plus and get E.Escobar. He’s cheaper and I’m sure we could resign him this winter.
Z-A 2
At least once his traded it wont cost a pick to sign him in the offseason.
Polish Hammer
Is that true for the team signing him? The team losing him won’t get any compensation, but I thought the team signing would still surrender a pick.
BlueSkyLA
Nope, he’d be completely unburdened from the compensation pick because the team with whom he ends the season can’t extend a QO. Maybe someone will have a better memory for the details of how the system worked before the QO system was put into effect but it seems the old compensation process is what you are remembering.
Lefty_Orioles_Fan
Why in the world would the Indians want Machado?
Indians are fine the way they are!
chound
Brewers all the way in this race!
simschifan
I still say dodgers are the best fit. I would love the Brewers to get him cause it would put a dent in their farm system and possibly not have enough to get Degrom. He scares me on the Brewers more than Machado
norcalblue
Really ambivalent about a Machado deal to LAD. From LAD perspective, I still don’t see a Machado trade being necessary or practical. Taking on his salary alone seems like a deal-breaker. I guess if Kemp and Forsythe are moved (along with a reduced prospect package) it could make sense. Seriously, unless Ned Colleti has already been hired and is serving as “senior advisor”, I don’t think even the Oriole FO is that stupid.
In the end, Machado’s best position is 3B and he is not going to play there everday on the Dodgers. If they play him at SS, it’s a significant decline defensively. The LAD FO cares about defensive metrics. Aside from the obvious offensive upgrade, the only other reason to make this deal would be to keep him away from AZ. I trust this FO; but, not sure I’d make this deal.
ravens9111
Machado already said he will play 3B for the team that trades for him
thegreatcerealfamine
Oh he did, and when was this? Also the rest of the baseball universe must be in the dark the.
OCTraveler
Dodgers Lineup:
C – Grandal
1B – Bellinger
2B – Taylor v RH; Muncy v LH
3B – Turner
SS – Macahdo
LF – Kemp
CF – Petersen v RH; Taylor v LH
RF – Puig
OCTraveler
If you sign Machado to an extension, next season Seager to SS and either move Turner (Machado to 3B) or mover Pedersen (Bellinger to CF; Machado to 1B)
thegreatcerealfamine
Manny isn’t signing an extension, and he he ain’t playing anything but SS.
jett
Agreed, Machado won’t have any interest in giving up free agency regardless of where he’s traded to. We don’t know exactly where he’ll end up but come winter time, if the biggest offer he gets is asking him to play third base. He’ll change his tune and say he was meant to be a third baseman all along.
thegreatcerealfamine
He probably already has maybe three teams in mind that he’ll sign with. He’s gonna be the ultimate primadonna this winter and will milk everything and everyone for attention. My own opinion is those three teams are the Phillies, Braves, and his dream the Yankees. Not saying any of those teams feel the same way, but moves can be made so he can play SS.
Priggs89
Nobody in their right mind would pay Machado the kind of money he’s looking for to play first base. That’s absurd.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see him go back to third base though. I think this whole shortstop situation was significantly more about him wanting to get paid rather than anything else. If he wasn’t playing a god awful shortstop right now and had that bat, he’d easily get the biggest contract in baseball history.
54scooterb
Watch somebody like the Mets pull a stunner.
peterd
The Coupons have zero young talent in their farm system and they obviously don’t shop anywhere except Kmart or the waiver wire
slider32
I don’t see the O’s getting the best prospects from the Dodgers or Brewers. I think the Braves, Diamondbacks, or Cards would give them the best talent if they want him..
kershawsgrandma22
Pleaseeeeee Dodgers get Manny
crankdispatch
I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Mariners make a last minute entry to the Machado sweepstakes. Makes as much sense to me as the Dodgers for a star rental.
Backatitagain
Not too interested in a trade for Machado as far as the Braves are concerned; however would love a deal with Cincinnati for Raisel Iglesias, Eugenio Suarez, Tyler Mahle and Jesse Winker for Ronald Acuna, Rio Ruiz, Matt Wisler, Chad Bell.
deadset4
The Orioles FO botched it already. They waited to long to move him. Nobody will pay a fair price now for a rental. If they come out of this with anything less than a top 50 pitching prospect that’s MLB ready and another top 100 prospect from whomever,then all of the waiting has cost them dearly.. Only a handful of teams can offer that package. My money is on the Cardinals (who aren’t mentioned) the Phillies are right there as well… All the other teams mentioned are just BS
RedRooster
Orioles don’t need MLB ready prospects. They need guys with upside who are still a ways out.
Polish Hammer
Nobody will pay “a fair price”? They’ll still get a fair price, relative to the amount of time remaining in the season.
elmore80
Braves get Archer and Eovaladi for Camargo,Fried ,Allard and Anderson.
64' Yanks
Maybe D-Backs make a try to get Drury back unless they knew about his headache issues. Just another thought maybe the Yankees are punishing him for not informing them about his medical issues before the trade.