Russell tries to ignore trade talk

Reports link him to Machado deal

Addison Russell said he hears his name associated with Orioles superstar Manny Machado in trade discussions only when media members ask questions to him.

And Russell’s isolation is supported by his recent production at the plate, where he is 6-for-12 and providing clutch hits such as his game-tying double in the ninth inning Tuesday against the Braves.

“I really don’t pay attention to that,” Russell said Saturday morning of reports linking him to Machado, who can become a free agent after this season. “All I know is that I play for the Cubs. And I’m going to play for the Cubs as hard as I can. I like this team, I like this organization. I really don’t pay attention to all that stuff.

“It doesn’t bother me. I’ve been in a trade once (from the Athletics in 2014). This is a great organization. The Cubs have stuck with me when I went through a lot of things. I think that would be sad if I ever had to leave, but I’m very thankful for the Cubs to give me the opportunity of playing. I’m very thankful, but as far as the trade rumors, if it happens, it happens. I really don’t pay them attention.”

Russell’s confidence has perked after his batting average dipped as low as .206 on April 26. He’s batted .359 since then, including a four-hit game Friday.

“I’m just trying not to create any power,” Russell said. “I’m just trying to have that feel for my swing. Of course, I have my rhythm, but I’m really not trying to hit the ball too hard right now.

Russell pointed to his second at-bat Friday as his favorite because he hit a single to center field that started a rally. But Russell, who had one home run and 10 RBIs entering Saturday’s games, declined to be drawn in to comparisons that he could reach the 21-homer, 95-RBI marks he reached in 2016.

“I’m not comparing my numbers from last year or anything like that,” Russell said. “I feel like where I am in age (24), I think it’s too early to tell for that.”