San Diego Padres have officially announced a blockbuster decision involving star third baseman Manny Machado. The franchise confirmed today that Machado, the cornerstone of their lineup and face of the organization, is being actively shopped in trade talks — signaling the potential end of a $307 million era in San Diego.
The brutal announcement came via a press release early this morning, with Padres President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller stating, “We are exploring all options to ensure long-term competitiveness. No player is untouchable if it means putting this franchise in a better position to succeed.” While no trade has yet been finalized, sources close to the team say multiple contenders have already expressed serious interest.
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Machado, 32, signed a mammoth 11-year, $350 million deal in 2019, which was later restructured to a $307 million extension in 2023. While he’s been an All-Star performer and MVP candidate during his time in San Diego, the team has failed to deliver consistent postseason success. With a bloated payroll and a stalled roster, the Padres appear ready to make a seismic shift.
Reports indicate the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Seattle Mariners are among the teams who have inquired. Each sees Machado as a franchise-altering presence, both at the plate and in the field.
The news has sparked an uproar among Padres fans, many of whom see this as a sign the team may be entering a soft rebuild. On social media, reactions have been swift and emotional, with some fans supporting a reset while others feel betrayed by the sudden turn.
If a deal is finalized, it will go down as one of the most significant trades in franchise history — and one that could reshape the National League for years to come.
For now, all eyes are on Preller and the Padres front office as the baseball world waits for what could be a landscape-altering decision.