Leaving B’more, Yanks still in game for Machado
BALTIMORE — Manny Machado declined to address trade rumors involving the Yankees when he was asked during the three-day series at Camden Yards, but he may have made his boldest statement without saying a word.
The Baltimore shortstop left the clubhouse without speaking following the Yankees’ 9-0 win, but he apparently liked a photoshopped image of him wearing a Yankees road uniform that was posted on Instagram Wednesday night.
He may get his (apparent) wish, as the Yankees continue to be in discussions with Baltimore about the All-Star, with a report saying that they made a “serious” offer to the Orioles.
Machado and the rest of baseball are still awaiting his fate before the July 31 nonwaiver trade deadline.
If the Yankees have to choose between Machado and upgrading the rotation,, a person with a team that is not the Yankees or Orioles believes they should get the arm and forget the bat.
“They still need a starter,’’ the talent evaluator said before Sonny Gray shut out the Orioles for six innings. “The Yankees can win without Machado.’’
A trade for Machado, though, wouldn’t take the Yankees out of a possible move for a starting pitcher, which is where Miguel Andujar could come in. A willingness to include Andujar in a deal would open up third base for Machado and perhaps help boost the rotation.
A report surfaced Wednesday that the Orioles are looking for Justus Sheffield, the Yankees’ top pitching prospect, in a deal.
Asked if the 22-year-old Sheffield could help the Yankees during the second half of the season, the scout said he wasn’t ready. That is an indication the Yankees’ top priority is obtaining a starter. No doubt they will be represented Thursday night when Blue Jays lefty J.A. Happ faces the Red Sox at Fenway Park.
As of Wednesday night, no deal appeared imminent. The Dodgers, Brewers, Phillies, Diamondbacks, Braves, Indians and Red Sox all remain interested in Machado.
Aaron Boone said before the game he wouldn’t be stunned to see a significant addition by general manager Brian Cashman before the deadline.
“All I can say is I know we’ll be active in trying to better our club,’’ the manager said. “Whether that comes to fruition, it takes two parties to tango. I know Brian is working overtime and exhausting every option. If it makes sense for us not only in the short-term but in the longterm, I’m sure it’s something we’ll potentially do. I don’t think anything for sure.”