By Jordan Long
The Chicago Cubs are talking to the Baltimore Orioles about a possible trade for Manny Machado. This is to improve not only the batting lineup, but the infield for the Cubs. Machado has 1 more year left on his deal before he becomes a free agent.
Machado is the type of player who could enhance the Cubs lineup if he were dealt to the Windy City. Last season he hit .259 with 33 home runs and 95 RBI’s. With the wind blowing out in the outfield, Machado will be able to match those numbers and increase his home runs.
The Cubs don’t want him only for his bat. Machado can play 3rd base and shortstop. He wouldn’t be the everyday 3rd baseman because of Kris Bryant. Machado will be able to give Bryant a day off when he needs it. Machado also starts double plays.
The only problem with him at 3rd base are errors. Machado isn’t the most accurate thrower with a total of 14 errors at the position last season, far too many. In his career at 3rd base, he has a total of 67.
Shortstop is where Machado is more comfortable. He has played 49 games at the position during his 8-year MLB career. Machado doesn’t make as many errors with 8.
The Cubs already have a shortstop in Addison Russell. He has 4 years left until he hits free agency. If the Cubs end up trading for Machado, then Russell should be on the bench. Machado is the better player. Russell is not the hitter Machado is with a .239 average with 12 home runs and 43 RBI’s last year. Russell also made 30 errors total in his 4-year career.
The Cubs may also deal Russell if they land Machado. There may not be room for both of them. It would give Russell a fresh start in a different organization.
The Cubs will do what is best for them. Machado seems like a fit on this team. Time will only tell if the Orioles will trade Machado.
What do you think of the possibly of the Chicago Cubs trading for Manny Machado?
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