San Diego Padres, Manuel Machado, in St. Louis Cardinals Cross-Hairs

Cardinals pursue star Padres player Machado

Will Machado become a Cardinal or remain a Padre?

The St. Louis Cardinals, looking to add talent and bolster their roster, have expressed interest in acquiring 30-year-old San Diego Padres star infielder, Manuel Machado.

Machado, a four-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, is one of the most sought-after players in baseball. He has a career batting average of .282, with 273 home runs and 839 RBIs in 1,511 games played.

The Cardinals are hoping to add Machado to their lineup to help them compete for a World Series title. They have a strong core of players, including Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenado, and Juan Yepez

Potential Deal Details

The Cardinals are reportedly offering a package of prospects, including outfielder Alec Burleson and pitcher Matthew Liberatore, to the Padres for Machado.

The Padres are reportedly reluctant to trade Machado, but they are listening to offers. They are reportedly seeking a package of prospects that includes a top-100 prospect.

If a deal is made, Machado would join a Cardinals team that is already one of the favorites to win the World Series. He would add a much-needed bat to the lineup and provide the Cardinals with a solid defensive option at third base.

Machado's Contract

Machado is entering the final year of his contract with the Padres. He is set to earn $30 million in 2023.

The Cardinals would likely have to sign Machado to a long-term contract extension if they acquire him. Machado is expected to command a salary of at least $30 million per year on his next contract.

The Cardinals have the financial resources to sign Machado to a long-term deal. They have one of the highest payrolls in baseball.

Impact on the Padres

If Machado is traded to the Cardinals, it would be a significant loss for the Padres. Machado is one of the best players in baseball and a key part of their team.

The Padres would likely have to replace Machado with a combination of players.

The Padres are reportedly interested in signing free agent shortstop Xander Bogaerts. Bogaerts is a four-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger winner.

The Padres are also reportedly interested in trading for Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson. Henderson is one of the top prospects in baseball.

Conclusion

The Cardinals are reportedly interested in acquiring Machado from the Padres. Machado is one of the best players in baseball and would be a significant addition to the Cardinals lineup.

The Padres are reportedly reluctant to trade Machado, but they are listening to offers. If a deal is made, Machado would join a Cardinals team that is already one of the favorites to win the World Series.