Padres Rumors: Friars Down on the List of Teams Expected to Sign Manny Machado Next Offseason
Even though the 2023 MLB season has yet to kick off, insiders have already begun speculation of which teams are in the best spot to add Padre's Manny Machado to their roster this next offseason. The star third baseman is set to hit the open market after he could not come to an agreement on an extension before Spring Training kicked off.
Machado still seems very much happy to be dawning the brown and gold heading into this year and has emphasized that his focus is still on winning a title for San Diego. However, this could be the NL MVP finalist's last dance with the city if they choose to go in a different direction.
Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer put together a list of the ten teams that he believes are most likely to sign Machado after this season and the Friars found themselves at just number four. His main reason was the team has the luxury of replacing what he brings.
"And yet, San Diego's surprise deal with Bogaerts partially smacks of preemptive preparation for Machado's departure," said Rymer. "If he does leave, the club could easily cover the hole by moving Fernando Tatis Jr. from the outfield back to the infield, where he would line up against Bogaerts, Ha-Seong Kim and Jake Cronenworth."
The Padre's front office was not scared to spend money this offseason and ensured that most of their top talent was paid what they warranted. Unfortunately, Machado has found himself as the odd man out despite efforts from his teammates.
San Diego does already have a younger star who they will need to pay soon in Juan Soto and have been rumored to be in the mix for pitcher Shohei Ohtani when he becomes a free agent who will require a massive contract.
