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Manny Machado Trade Rumors: Diamondbacks, Orioles Have Discussed Move
June 19, 2018
The Baltimore Orioles and Arizona Diamondbacks have reportedly discussed a trade involving Orioles shortstop Manny Machado.
Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported the news, noting "dialogue remains open between the clubs." However, he pointed out this is more "due diligence" for the Diamondbacks as they assess the team's needs.
Machado figures to be a highly publicized trade target considering he is set to be an unrestricted free agent following the 2018 season.
The Orioles are an abysmal 20-50 and sit in last place in the American League East this season, 27.5 games back of the New York Yankees. They are not looking like a contender anytime soon, and trading Machado before he potentially leaves as a free agent would allow them to land some young pieces to accelerate a rebuild.
Machado would be a head-turning addition for the Diamondbacks or any other team as a three-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glover. He is slashing .310/.377/.567 with 18 home runs and 53 RBI this year after drilling at least 33 home runs in each of the last three seasons.
He is one of the best offensive players in the league and is only 25 years old, so Baltimore could command a high price for him, especially early in discussions.
However, his defense has not been as effective since switching from third base to shortstop, and he is responsible for an ugly minus-15 defensive runs saved this season, per FanGraphs. Still, Machado would represent an offensive upgrade for a Diamondbacks team attempting to stave off the Los Angeles Dodgers’ charge in the National League West.
Arizona is 13th in the league in total runs and needs more consistent offensive production if it is going to reach the playoffs and challenge the best teams in October.
Machado would provide just that in a potential win-now window.