Report: D-Backs, Orioles in open dialogue about Machado trade

More than a month out from Major League Baseball's non-waiver trade deadline, this year's marquee asset is being linked to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Baltimore Orioles reportedly remain in an open dialogue with the Diamondbacks regarding star shortstop Manny Machado, sources tell Jon Morosi of MLB Network.

While Morosi notes that the teams discussed a potential Machado swap during the offseason, the conversation has continued into the campaign.

Machado, a pending free agent, was expected to be made available during the season as the Orioles pivot toward a rebuild. The Kansas City Royals potentially kickstarted the trade season Monday by shipping off star closer Kelvin Herrera, and in tandem with the Orioles' woeful form - they're 30 games under .500 and recently became the final team to reach 20 wins - that could lead Dan Duquette and the rest of Baltimore's front office to ramp up talks sooner than planned.

The 25-year-old Machado shifted to his natural position of shortstop this season after winning a pair of Gold Gloves at third base. While Diamondbacks shortstop Nick Ahmed started the season hot, the 28-year-old has cooled off, opening a potential spot for Machado with Jake Lamb as the full-time third baseman.

Despite his cellar-dwelling team, Machado's having a strong season, even in relation to his previous performance. Over 69 games, the shortstop owns a .310/.377/.567 slash line - all of which would register as career highs if he kept up the pace - with 18 home runs and three stolen bases.

While Machado would potentially be a rental and wouldn't guarantee any draft-pick compensation as a midseason acquisition, the highly sought-after infielder will likely still command a premium return. Arizona has two top-100 prospects in its system, highlighted by right-hander Jon Duplantier, according to MLB Pipeline.