The Manny Machado sweepstakes has just taken an interesting turn and could have a significant impact on the National League’s playoff race.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Brewers have leapfrogged the Yankees and become a finalist, along with the Phillies, to land the Orioles shortstop.
Sources: Orioles making progress and narrowing their focus in the Machado trade talks. Phillies and Brewers appear to be among the finalists.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) July 14, 2018
Machado would improve both the Phillies and Brewers chances to make and compete in the postseason. The playoff picture could change quickly depending on where he ends up.
Machado will shape the playoff picture for sure, but he isn’t likely to be the missing piece either of these teams need to win a World Series. Whatever team he ends up on will probably need another move or two for that to happen.