The latest Phillies rumor says a big free agent bat will visit Philadelphia
On a day where a new Phillies rumor emerges by the hour, a new note that should excite fans came out on Tuesday night.
According to NBCS Philadelphia’s Jim Salisbury, free agent infielder Manny Machado is scheduled to visit the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on an unknown day.
Salisbury confirmed the pending visit on the “At the Yard” podcast released Tuesday after Andrew McCutchen reportedly agreed to a three-year deal.
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Machado would be the second star free agent to visit Citizens Bank Park this offseason. Pitcher Patrick Corbin visited Philadelphia before signing with the Washington Nationals, but getting free agents in the door is a strong sign that players are interested in what the Phillies have to offer, both in money and opportunities.
Last year Machado was adamant about playing shortstop, and despite acquiring Jean Segura the Phillies are still open to bringing in Machado. Either the team would offer enough money for Machado to agree to play third base over Maikel Franco or Segura replaces Cesar Herandez, who is coming off a broken foot, at second base.
If Segura moves to second the Phillies might have a tough time moving Hernandez. They’re reportedly not shopping him this offseason despite the presence of Scott Kingery and his long-term contract.
Kingery appeared in 10 games at third base last year and made three errors in limited play. Gabe Kapler felt confident playing Kingery across the diamond as a rookie, but the second base prospect’s offense may have taken a hit because of the lack of consistency when it came to where he played on the field.
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