Signing Manny Machado: Pros, cons, and predictions

In this six-part series, theScore's MLB editors break down the pros and cons of signing the top free agents in this year's class and predict where they'll end up. Today, we're looking at Manny Machado, a four-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner who split the 2018 season between the Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Pros/cons

Elite bat at premium defensive position(s)

While Bryce Harper's ceiling is higher, the fact Machado plays shortstop and third base at a Gold Glove level could actually make him the more sought-after free agent. Since he became a full-time player back in 2013, Machado is ranked seventh by FanGraphs WAR, essentially in a dead heat with Joey Votto. Only two infielders have been better: Jose Altuve and Josh Donaldson, neither of whom can play shortstop. Even further, Machado's 121 wRC+ ranks better than Nolan Arenado over that span, and he just turned 26 years old. Even if he doesn't end up sticking at shortstop, Machado has proven to be elite at third base, which is still a premium defensive position.

Controversial figure

Even though Machado did some damage control and explained his comments about hustling, he's still a polarizing individual. Let's assume he really is fine with hustling, he still inexplicably clipped Jesus Aguilar on the ankle at first base while jogging out a groundout during the National League Championship Series. The shortstop was served with a fine for the benches-clearing incident. He also notably spiked Dustin Pedroia in the calf and attempted to throw his bat at opposing players after being targeted by an inside pitch.

Consistency

Since the beginning of the 2015 season, Machado has missed 11 games, playing all 162 contests twice over the four-year span. He failed to reach the 6-WAR plateau just once throughout that stretch, and authored an OPS north of .860 three times. It's clear that 2017, when Machado posted an unremarkable .259/.310/.471 slash line, is the outlier. His ability to provide offense and consistency would be a boon for any team.

Breaking the bank

The problem - if we can call it that - is Machado is going to cost a lot. Possibly even a record amount. Realistically speaking, the 26-year-old infielder is essentially guaranteed to get a deal worth more than $250 million. That would be larger than any MLB contract not signed by Alex Rodriguez or Giancarlo Stanton. Considering A-Rod belongs in the Hall of Fame, and Stanton already owns an MVP award, there is some worry that Machado might not be worth that level of financial commitment. Machado has never finished higher than fourth in MVP voting, and has never received one single first-place vote.

Best fits

New York Yankees

In the Yankees' quest to dethrone the Boston Red Sox, many pundits expect them to go big-game hunting in free agency. Harper isn't a perfect roster fit for them, and now that they've addressed some of their pitching needs by trading for James Paxton, New York could go after Machado. Didi Gregorius is slated to miss a large portion of next season after requiring Tommy John surgery, and although Gleyber Torres could slide over to shortstop, that would leave a different vacancy at second base. Machado in the Bronx makes a lot of sense.

Philadelphia Phillies

Until both Harper and Machado sign, the Phillies will be tied to both. They have less than $100 million on the books for next season and an ownership that's willing to recklessly spend. They also have a notable need at pretty much every position on the diamond, especially on the left side of the infield.

Chicago White Sox

The White Sox are a lot further away from a playoff spot than simply adding Machado, but that hasn't stopped the parties from being linked. Perhaps if Yoan Moncada and Lucas Giolito actually take steps forward next year, and if Michael Kopech comes back healthy, they could be close. But, for now, they aren't. What they do have, though, is plenty of payroll room before coming anywhere near the luxury tax. If Chicago is looking for a marketable face that may help lead the younger players into contention, Machado could, conceivably, be it.

Prediction

Machado signs a 10-year, $310-million deal with the Yankees.