Yankees Predicted to Pursue Orioles’ $255 Million Star After Missing Out on Juan Soto
The New York Yankees may have missed out on acquiring superstar outfielder Juan Soto, but reports suggest they are wasting no time pivoting to an even bigger target. According to league insiders, the Yankees are eyeing Baltimore Orioles’ four-time All-Star Manny Machado, who is currently under a $255 million deal. The move could signal the Yankees’ intention to shore up their offense and defense heading into the 2024 season.
After Soto’s blockbuster trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers earlier this week, the Yankees were left scrambling to make a statement acquisition. Soto, 25, was viewed as the perfect piece to rejuvenate the Yankees’ underperforming lineup. His departure from the trade market, however, forced New York to reassess their options, and Machado has quickly emerged as a top priority.
Machado, 32, is coming off another stellar season, cementing his status as one of the league’s elite third basemen. With a .282 batting average, 35 home runs, and 98 RBIs in 2023, Machado demonstrated his consistent offensive production. His defensive prowess at the hot corner has also made him a perennial Gold Glove contender.
The Yankees struggled offensively last season, particularly in the infield. Adding Machado would not only provide a significant upgrade at third base but also bring a veteran presence to a team that underperformed relative to expectations.
Machado’s experience in the American League East could be another factor in the Yankees’ pursuit. He spent seven years with the Orioles before stints with the Dodgers and Padres, giving him a deep familiarity with the division’s competitive dynamics
While the Yankees have the financial firepower to absorb Machado’s $255 million contract, pulling off a deal with the Orioles won’t be easy. Baltimore has been building a young, competitive roster around stars like Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson, and Machado is a key piece of their plans.
To entice the Orioles, the Yankees may have to part with top-tier prospects such as Jasson Domínguez or Austin Wells, along with other assets. Even then, convincing a division rival to trade their marquee player is a tall order.
The Pressure Is On for Brian Cashman
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is under immense pressure to deliver after a disappointing 2023 season that saw the team miss the playoffs. Fans and critics alike have voiced frustration with the team’s inability to secure big-name stars in recent years.
If the Yankees can land Machado, it would send a strong message to the league that they are still serious contenders. However, failing to act decisively could deepen skepticism about the team’s ability to compete in an increasingly competitive AL East.
With spring training just months away, all eyes are on the Yankees to see if they can turn their offseason around with a blockbuster move.
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