With Manny Machado’s opt-out looming, the San Diego Padres unsurprisingly want to keep their prized third baseman. Still, early indications are that negotiations on a possible extension to keep Machado in San Diego could be going better.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports, the Padres’ latest offer to Machado puts the two sides an astonishing $145M apart.
Machado is reportedly seeking a 10-year, $400M extension beginning in 2024 after opting out of his original deal. Per Nightengale, the Padres presented Machado with a five-year, $105M extension starting in 2029.
On Friday, Machado confirmed that he plans to opt out of a 10-year, $300M contract he signed with the Padres ahead of the 2019 season. While Machado is forfeiting $150M by walking away, he’ll make that and then some on his next deal, whether it comes from the Padres or another team.
Machado mentioned a change in the market as the main reason for opting out of his deal with the Padres, and it’s hard to argue the six-time All-Star’s point. While stars throughout the league are signing free-agent contracts worth ludicrous amounts, the Padres themselves have recently inked Xander Bogaerts (11 years, $280M) and Fernando Tatis Jr. (14 years, $340M) to insanely high deals.
The Padres are certainly in a pickle. As Nightengale points out, if the Padres fail to pay up for Machado, someone else will, without hesitation, next offseason.
Machado has produced for the Padres, certainly enough to warrant a new deal. Since arriving in San Diego ahead of the 2019 season, Machado ranks third among third basemen in home runs (108) and fifth in hits (108), slashing .280/.352/.504 in 519 games.
