Manny Machado Rumors: Yankees Want To Sign Free Agent Despite Controversy, Contract Demands

Any speculation that the New York Yankees might not make a competitive offer for Manny Machado can probably be put to rest. Despite members of the front office expressing concerns about his lack of hustle and rumors that the organization won’t give him $300 million, the Yankees appear to be all in on the free agent.

Machado visited Yankee Stadium Wednesday afternoon and reportedly met with the team for about 90 minutes. According to Jon Heyman of Fancred Sports, Machado, his wife and his agent had dinner with some of New York’s key decision-makers in Manhattan.

It looks like a three-team race in the Manny Machado Sweepstakes. The infielder met with the Chicago White Sox Monday. He’s meeting the Philadelphia Phillies Thursday to conclude his visits with potential suitors.

Chicago and Philadelphia are targeting both Machado and Bryce Harper. The Yankees have indicated that they don’t have much interest in giving a long-term deal to the superstar outfielder.

Philadelphia might be New York’s biggest competition to sign Machado. The Phillies reportedly prefer him to Harper, and much has been made about the organization spending “stupid” money this offseason. It would be considered a disappointment for Philadelphia if they don’t land one of the top free agents on the market.

It’s unknown exactly what kind of offer the Yankees will make to Machado. It’s been speculated that the four-time All-Star is looking for a deal that’s in the neighborhood of Giancarlo Stanton’s record $325 million contract.

New York could get creative if they don’t wish to commit that kind of money to another player. Perhaps a higher average salary over five years could get the job done.

If all things are equal, Machado reportedly wants to be a Yankee. We could soon find out how far New York is willing to go to land one of the most sought-after free agents in recent years.

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