The New York Yankees were rumored to have an interest in superstar free agent Manny Machado this offseason, before he signed with the San Diego Padres on a 10-year, $300 million deal with a 5th-year option.
Machado would have instantly improved the Yankees’ infield, but it would have forced the team to relocate youth phenom, Miguel Andujar. The 23-year-old is coming off a stellar offensive season, hitting .297 with 47 doubles and 27 homers. Replacing him, or rather moving him from the only position he’s ever played would be devastating to his development.
Letting Machado walk in free agency was the best thing the Bombers could have done in regard to instilling confidence in their potential cornerstone piece in the infield.