Manny Machado Likely Hasn't Received $300 Million Contract Offer From Phillies, Yankees, White Sox

When Manny Machado was in the midst of his 2018 All-Star season, he appeared well on his way to landing a contract worth close to $300 million in free agency. A few days into 2019, it’s looking like the superstar hasn’t received such an offer.

It’s been two weeks since Machado took meetings with the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies. According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, the infielder’s agent is “barely engaging clubs” and “waiting for a team to jump.”

That could mean Machado still hasn't gotten an offer that would be close to a record-setting contract.

Chicago is looking to make a splash this offseason, but that might not include giving Machado $300 million. USA TODAY Sports’ Bob Nightengale has reported that the team’s offer to the free agent is likely closer to $200 million.

The Yankees are considered to be Machado’s preferred destination if they offer him a competitive contract. It’s been reported throughout the offseason that New York doesn’t plan on giving the 26-year-old $300 million, instead hoping to sign him to a shorter deal with a high yearly average salary.

New York has reportedly agreed to a league-minimum contract with Troy Tulowitzki. They are prepared for the veteran to begin the 2019 MLB season as their starting shortstop if Machado decides to sign elsewhere.

A lot has been made about the Phillies potentially spending “stupid” money this offseason. If Philadelphia has made such an offer to Machado already, would his agent still be waiting for other teams to offer him a deal?

Machado is expected to sign before Harper, who will almost certainly get more lucrative offers than the infielder. Harper turned down a 10-year, $300 million contract from the Washington Nationals at the end of the regular season.

Philadelphia and Chicago are both considered to be players for Harper, as well. The Phillies seem to prefer Machado, and the White Sox are reportedly talking more seriously with Machado than Harper at the moment.

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Machado from the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for five minor leaguers before the July 31 trade deadline. He posted a career-high .905 OPS in 162 games, but the four-time All-Star’s value might have been somewhat diminished after a rough postseason.