Fansided

Count on the Yankees chasing these big name free agents in 2019

By Rucker Haringey

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 30: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals hits a ninth inning double against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on September 30, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 30: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals hits a ninth inning double against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on September 30, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 15: Manny Machado #8 of the Los Angeles Dodgers singles in the second inning of Game 3 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium on Monday, October 15, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 15: Manny Machado #8 of the Los Angeles Dodgers singles in the second inning of Game 3 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium on Monday, October 15, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) /

1. Manny Machado

Didi Gregorius’ injury suddenly has the Yankee infield in serious flux. Manny Machado is the sort of player who can help Cashman answer a lot of questions.

There are, of course, valid questions about what position Machado will play next season. He makes no secret of his desire to play shortstop, but the advanced metrics make it clear third baseman is his best position. It’s highly unlikely that trend will reverse as Machado ages.

In a way, it reminds you of the situation that Alex Rodriguez found himself in when he arrived in New York. Ironically, that’s a player who Machado reportedly idolizes. It’s very possible he’ll choose to follow in A-Rod’s footsteps and become a high-priced star for the Yankees.

Machado was one of the best players in baseball during the 2018 season. He slugged 37 homes for the Orioles and Dodgers en route to posting a WAR of 5.7. That makes it very obvious he is a legitimate superstar.

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It would be a major shock if the Yankees don’t emerge as serious suitors for Machado this winter. He’s still only 26 years of age which means New York can acquire him and enjoy the prime of his career. He’s simply too talented to pass on. Look for the Yankees to make a substantial offer to Machado as soon as free agency begins.

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