Inside The Cubs

Could the Chicago Cubs Actually Pursue Machado in Free Agency?

San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado is planning to opt out of his contract following the 2023 MLB season. But is he a legitimate target for the Chicago Cubs?
Kade Kistner|
Could the Chicago Cubs Actually Pursue Machado in Free Agency?
Could the Chicago Cubs Actually Pursue Machado in Free Agency?

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San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado has recently stated that he plans on opting out of his 10-year, $300 million deal following the end of the 2023 MLB season. He is looking to sign a deal in the 10-year, $400 million range according to multiple reports. 

Following the signing of shortstop Xander Bogaerts, Juan Soto's pending extension, and numerous other bloated contracts, it's hard to see the Padres giving Machado the deal he wants. Especially so when considering it would keep Machado through his age-41 season. 

USA Today's Bob Nightengale wrote in his Sunday column that if San Diego doesn't pursue him, there won't be a lack of suitors.

"If the Padres don’t pay it, well, don’t think for a second that someone like the New York Mets or Yankees or San Francisco Giants or the Chicago Cubs will hesitate," wrote Nightengale. 

The Cubs were mentioned, but it appears to be a stretch. While Chicago is one of the most wealthy teams in MLB, ownership and the front office have been weary about giving out mega deals to aging players. Hence why the pursued Dansby Swanson on a seven year deal rather than pursue a Trea Turner or Carlos Correa type. 

They want to avoid another Jason Heyward incident, Machado, while a bonafide superstar, would fit the bill of what they are trying to avoid. 

There is an open competition at third base this spring and adding a star at the position would help bolster the roster and solidify their status as contenders. However, there will be opportunity to upgrade at the third without having to mortgage the future on Machado. 

Based on how the Cubs have decided to conduct business this offseason and their new approach to contracts, it's hard to see Machado as a fit for the club. Not on the field, but financially. 

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Kade Kistner
KADE KISTNER

Kade Kistner is the publisher and beat writer for Sports Illustrated's Inside the Cubs. An alumnus of Tulane University, Kade graduated in 2017 with a degree in Latin American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Upon graduation, Kade commissioned into the United States Navy and attended Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Fl. He served as a Naval Aviator and was stationed in Jacksonville, Fl. During his time in school and the Navy, Kade began covering the MLB and NFL with USA Today, SB Nation, and Sports Illustrated. Kade covered the New Orleans Saints, Texas Rangers, and numerous other teams within the Sports Illustrated network before launching Inside the Phillies, Inside the Astros, and Inside the Cubs. You can follow him on Twitter at @KadeKistner, or if you have any questions or comments he can be reached via email at kwkistner@gmail.com.

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