The Los Angeles Dodgers closed out the first half of the 2018 season strong, taking over sole possession of first place in the National League West on the final day of games before the All-Star break. They then bolstered their roster by trading for All-Star shortstop Manny Machado.
Making the Machado trade may prove vital for the Dodgers considering as of last Friday, they began a 17-game stretch in which they play nothing but teams that are currently projected to make the postseason. Additionally, the Dodgers do not have an off day during that stretch.
In a recent interview with David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, Dodgers general manager Farhan Zaidi explained that difficult stretch, plus a sense of needing to improve the roster, were significant factors in acquiring Machado:
“We felt like improving our team in this two or three week period was imperative, and we think Manny Machado was the best target out there.”
In 96 games with the Orioles during the first half, Machado hit .315/.387/.575 with 24 home runs, 65 RBI and even stole eight bases. He’s gone 8-for-31 with one double, one triple, one home run two RBI through seven games with the Dodgers.
Aside from providing another threat at the plate, Machado also fits into the Dodgers philosophy in that he is versatile defensively, being able to play both shortstop and third base, which Zaidi said he would not mind doing.
Machado began his tenure with Los Angeles at shortstop, but Justin Turner landing on the 10-day disabled list, coupled with Max Muncy’s recent struggles at the position, appears to have led to a change. Machado has played third base since a series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies.
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