With the annual MLB general manager meetings now in the rearview mirror, a flurry of activity is expected to soon ensue as the calendar inches closer to December’s Winter Meetings in Las Vegas.
Headlining one of the most talented MLB free agent classes in recent memory is shortstop Manny Machado, most recently of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Even with his overall struggles in the postseason, the 26-year-old is slated to cash in with perhaps the most lucrative contract in North American professional sports history.
To this point, however, Machado’s market hasn’t been as robust as one would expect. The New York Yankees — his most speculated suitor — are expected to prioritize pitching help this offseason more than anything else.
According to Jon Heyman of Fancred, the St. Louis Cardinals are also cool on the idea of pursuing Machado despite their desire to add another bat in the infield:
Interestingly, the Cardinals do not seem interested in Manny Machado despite their interest in a corner infield bat.
The Cardinals, who fell just short of a postseason berth in 2018, figure to be active on multiple fronts this offseason. With breakout star Jose Martinez penciled in at first base, any upgrade would likely have to come at the hot corner.
That’s where Machado fits in, and he is believed willing to transition back to third base on a full-time basis in the ideal situation. Though, his preference is to reportedly sign with an East Coast team.
That could lead the Cardinals to pursue other options, such as Josh Donaldson, who is looking to bounce back from an injury-plagued 2018 season.
His asking price won’t be nearly as high as Machado’s, either, which could play a role in how St. Louis approaches the position this winter.
