Yankees reportedly “fading” in Manny Machado sweepstakes

According to Thomas Harrigan, the Yankees are “fading” in the hunt for Orioles shortstop Manny Machado. Several National League teams remain in the forefront, primarily the Phillies and Dodgers.

It was almost a week ago that reports surfaced connecting the Yankees to Machado. In that time, Brian Cashman reportedly made a strong offer, but other teams have since passed him. Per the New York Post, the front office made all of the top prospects unavailable, virtually eliminating themselves from contention. The Orioles are known to covet Justus Sheffield, and the Yankees will not part with him for a rental.

Machado, 26, is in the midst of a brilliant campaign. He’s hitting .315/.387/.575 with 24 home runs, worth a powerful 156 wRC+. That type of production makes any team better. While some have argued that the Yankees have no place for the infielder, they would make room. He’s that good.

The saga appears to be approaching its conclusion, with an executive telling Buster Olney that it’s on the “10-yard-line”. The Orioles removed Machado from this afternoon’s game, which caused a stir, but that was for precautionary purposes. The infield conditions weren’t great, and the team doesn’t want to risk an injury to their top trade chip.

If the Yankees aren’t going to get Machado, it will best serve them for the ordeal to wrap up quickly. This way the market can clear up and Cashman can get a clear understanding of what’s available.