Yesterday, the San Diego Padres were the talk of MLB hot stove Twitter, as it became know that they are interested in signing Manny Machado. They are also in trade talks with the Miami Marlins regarding catcher J.T. Realmuto.
The betting industry is taking these rumors seriously, as the Padres' win total was taken off the board.
They had been at 78.5 earlier in the week, which was in the middle of their NL West competition.
- Dodgers: 94.5
- Rockies: 82.5
- Diamondbacks: 77.5
- Giants: 73.5
Other teams interested in Machado include the Phillies (84.5) and White Sox (75.5).
The Padres' World Series odds are still posted at +6600, but it's possible they get the Chicago White Sox treatment if the rumors keep up.
The White Sox were at +8000 before the Winter Meetings, but are now +3300 despite not actually making any significant roster improvements. That's what happens when you're linked to both Machado and Bryce Harper. Their odds will surely drop if they aren't able to sign either, though.
The Padres' MLB roster remains unremarkable for the time being, but they have a glut of stud prospects that will be ready for the majors very soon. Leading the way is shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr., who is considered a top-3 prospect in baseball.
Catching prospect Francisco Mejia is also highly touted, though is believed to a necessary trade piece for Miami if they want to acquire Realmuto.
Spring training is just a couple weeks out. Will Machado or Harper ever sign?!? Stay tuned.
