Phillies: Four reasons they should pass on Manny Machado

Is Machado the right fit in the clubhouse?

I find it tough to criticize professional athletes’ work ethic, players as good as Machado don’t become successful without putting in the work, so I feel it’s unfair to say.

Are their times he takes plays off? Yes. Which is fine to an extent, he’s human, we all clock out at work a little early sometimes and with 162 games plus playoffs, it’s bound to happen. But one thing that’s highly questionable is his maturity.

Purposely colliding with Milwaukee Brewers first basemen, Jesus Aguilar, in game 4 of the NLCS, on a routine ground out wasn’t a great look. Neither was letting go of his bat after a hard swing, directing it towards former Athletics and current Phillies pitcher Fernando Abad, which followed after an off-pitch that almost hit Machado, who was then playing for the Orioles, who were losing in a 10-0 blowout.

Philadelphia Phillies

Slamming down his helmet and challenging Josh Donaldson after being tagged out in a series between Oakland and Baltimore back in 2014 wasn’t ideal.

With many dominos still to fall in free agency and only three weeks to go until spring training, it seems unsettling that after many face to face meetings with different clubs, there still isn’t a deal to be had for Machado.

The New York Yankees, who met him personally, have the funds and the roster spot available to sign the all-star, so why are there now strong indications of them looking towards a trade for Colorado Rockies third basemen Nolan Arenado? The Chicago White Sox, have made a reported seven-year, $175 million dollar contract offer, an offer that’s low for today’s player value standards, especially a player that’s as good statistically as Machado.

Where the Phillies stand isn’t entirely clear as the race for Harper seems to be top of their priority list. There was a well-speculated mystery team that now has been revealed as the San Diego Padres, a team that’s full of youth and ready to make the next step, but it’s suggested that talks between the two sides aren’t as advanced yet.

All of this suggests two things, first, clubs are being rational, a signing like this is a long-term commitment, if they’re going to take the leap of faith, they want to make sure all the boxes are ticked.