Ryan Casey Aguinaldo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
It’s official. Manny Machado has signed an 11-year $350 Million extension. Many were very uncertain about his future with the Padres after his opt-out concerns, but this could make the Padres a big contender for many years. Manny Machado originally signed a 10-year $300 Million deal prior to the 2019 season but had an opt-out after this season that he made particularly clear he was going to use. This deal was a big surprise to everyone because many thought he was done with his time in San Diego after he quoted “there's a lot of money out there.” Manny Machado will still remain a key part of their already star-studded lineup’s future.
Machado will take part in his 5th season in San Diego in 2023, and he was a key part in their NLCS run last season. Machado finished 2nd in the National League MVP voting last year only behind star 1st baseman Paul Goldschmidt. Machado batted .298 with a .898 OPS last year arguably being the Padre's best player. He made his 2nd consecutive all-star game and the 6th of his career last season. Manny Machado was aware that the free agent market changed “tremendously” since he last dealt with it following the 2018-2019 season. Machado told reporters that “Things change and evolve and as a player that is good to see”.
Since 2021 the Padres have signed Xander Bogarts on a $280 Million deal, Fernando Tatis Jr. on a $340 Million deal, Yu Darvish on a $106 Million deal, and Joe Musgrove on a $100 Million deal. After all those signings they still have one of the best young talents we have ever seen in Juan Soto that is still a looming discussion. The Padres are guaranteeing Machado $45 Million for the next 11 seasons, and the contract has a full no-trade clause. Machado is also getting an extra $4 Million dollars every season for his signing bonus. With this deal, the Padres may be very legitimate contenders for many years to come.
Written by Aiden Fiaschetti
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