Yankees Rumors: Manny Machado, Top Reliever On New York's Wish List?

Major League Baseball has been waiting with great anticipation for movement on the Manny Machado front, but unfortunately for those who want blockbuster news to drop, it seems nothing has changed. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the star shortstop is still the subject of a bidding war between the Chicago White Sox, the New York Yankees and the Philadelphia Phillies.

Machado is said to want a long-term deal worth around $300 million, but it seems none of the three teams have made such an offer yet. The White Sox have apparently offered him closer to $200 million for his services.

There was some speculation that the Yankees could have moved Machado down their list of priorities after signing veteran shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, but it seems that is not the case. Machado, who has also played third base in his career, could slide into that position while Tulowitzki plays shortstop in the Bronx.

As Mike Axisa of CBS Sports pointed out, what the Yankees say now could have no bearing on what the future actually holds. Signing a 34-year-old veteran should not preclude the Yankees from signing the younger, hotter prospect in Machado.

Aside from Machado, the Yankees will likely look to shore up their reliever lineup after losing David Robertson to the Phillies. The New York Daily News said the most likely candidate is Zach Britton, who played for the Yankees last year. Adam Ottavino of the Colorado Rockies is also said to be a candidate, but is thought to be less likely than simply bringing back Britton.

The 31-year-old was acquired at the trade deadline last year and registered an ERA of 2.88 in 25 appearances for the Yankees last year.