MLB analyst on Manny Machado extension: "One thing we normally don't see in our sports world today is a lot of loyalty with one team"
After signing an 11-year, $350 million extension, Manny Machado will be the face of the franchise for the foreseeable future. The San Diego Padres third baseman will remain with the Friars past his 40th birthday. It is a serious commitment from one of the league's star players, which is a rarity nowadays.
Machado signed with the Padres on a 10-year, $300 million deal in 2019. He had a clause that allowed him to opt out at the end of 2023, but he eventually chose to return to San Diego.
Former MLB player and analyst Xavier Scruggs commended Machado for his loyalty to the Padres organization:
"One thing we normally don't see in our sports world today is a lot of loyalty with one team"
Machado began his career with the Baltimore Orioles before a brief stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2018. He has played the last four seasons with the Padres and will likely finish out his career with the organization.
You don’t normally see loyalty in the game like this…
@MLBNetwork @Padres #TimeToShine https://t.co/EhQYPNvNkS
"You don’t normally see loyalty in the game like this…@MLBNetwork @Padres #TimeToShine" - Xavier Scruggs
The Padres made sure to make Machado an offer he couldn't refuse. The deal is the fourth-largest contract in MLB history, behind only Mike Trout ($426.5 million), Mookie Betts ($365 million) and Aaron Judge ($360 million).
Manny Machado will remain with the San Diego Padres past his 40th birthday
The way the MLB is set up, players are constantly moving between teams. Modern-day baseball economics means that few players remain with an organization for more than a few years.
When you combine the initial contract that began in 2019 and today's contract extension, the Padres have signed Manny Machado for 15 years and $470 million https://t.co/shRdq0dy3Q
"When you combine the initial contract that began in 2019 and today's contract extension, the Padres have signed Manny Machado for 15 years and $470 million" - Talkin' Baseball
Derek Jeter is one exception to the rule. He played his entire 20-year career with the New York Yankees. Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina have also remained loyal to the St. Louis Cardinals franchise. Todd Helton played his entire 17-year MLB career with the Colorado Rockies.
Manny Machado is a six-time All-Star and a two-time Gold Glove winner. He has been one of the league's most consistent hitters over the previous decade. The San Diego Padres and their fanbase will be ecstatic about Machado committing his long-term future to the club.