Report: Teams showing interest in Orioles' Machado
Manny Machado is expected to be one of the most coveted names in free agency after the 2018 season, but some teams may already be looking to get a foot in the door.
The Baltimore Orioles have reportedly received a couple phone calls about Machado's availability, according to FanRag Sports' Jon Heyman. The team is not shopping Machado, and no offers are known, but the Orioles are believed to be willing to listen.
Teams thought to be interested in Machado include the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies, but they weren't necessarily the teams who made the calls.
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Still only 25, the six-season veteran has been one of baseball's best infielders since his debut in 2012. He had a somewhat down season at the plate in 2017, batting .259/.310/.471, but he did hit more than 30 home runs for the third consecutive season.
He will also be coveted for his defense. A two-time Gold Glove winner, only Nolan Arenado has a higher DRS among third basemen since 2012.
It remains to be seen what the Orioles would request in return, but he wouldn't come cheap despite his impending free agency and not having as strong a season in 2017.