Manny Machado rumors: 5 teams that should already have an eye on him
By Tim Boyle
3. The Phillies chose Bryce Harper the last time
Manny Machado rumors made their way through the Philadelphia Phillies news cycle before the team ultimately decided on Bryce Harper. The team was bound to land one of these mega stars. They chose the outfielder.
It’s hard to argue against it. Harper has been terrific for them, capturing the 2021 MVP already. The Phillies can actually do something unique and years later look like the biggest winners of all from the 2018-2019 offseason if they are able to add Machado.
Third base is wide open in Philadelphia with only Alec Bohm at the position. He’s a more natural fit at first base or the DH. Considering Rhys Hoskins is a free agent after the year is over, there’s going to be a place to put Bohm if the Phillies choose to let their right-handed slugger leave.
Machado would give the Phillies possibly the best left side of the infield in baseball. Paired alongside Trea Turner, they’ll have offense galore out of those two spots. Machado would bring the Phillies Gold Glove-caliber defense as well. It’s something they could use plenty more of. With Machado, they get a bit of everything.
There is little doubt we see Philadelphia involved in the sweepstakes. The only question is whether or not they prefer Matt Chapman who should come at a cheaper price annually.