There’s a new leader in the Manny Machado sweepstakes.
The Baltimore Orioles are expected to trade Machado to the Los Angeles Dodgers “barring a last-minute snag” on Wednesday, USA Today reported.
Coming off a World Series appearance, the Dodgers sit 53-43 at the All-Star break and in first place of the National League West. But Los Angeles has a need at shortstop, Machado’s position, with Corey Seager (Tommy John surgery) out for the season.
The Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies are also right behind the Dodgers in the NL West standings, so Los Angeles adding Machado could help create separation in the division.
This year, Machado is hitting .315 with 24 home runs and 65 RBI.
Machado, who will be playing in his fourth All-Star Game on Tuesday, addressed his trade rumors Monday at Nationals Park.
“I’m a baseball player, so I like turning on the TV and watch the highlights around the league, but at the same time, I just keep hearing trade rumors and hearing different things,” Machado said. “I’m just trying not to think about it. I can’t control it, at the end of the day.”
USA Today reported the Philadelphia Phillies and the Milwaukee Brewers “could still be in the mix” for Machado.
Machado will be a free agent after the season.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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