Manny Machado has been an integral part of the San Diego Padres’ success over the last few years. Since joining them in 2019, Machado has provided the Padres with elite power hitting and great fielding as well. This off-season looked to be a turning point for Machado and his team as they made big moves.

The Padres signed Xander Bogaerts in free agency and looked set to build a super-team for years to come. But Machado recently made an announcement that has the MLB world on alert and has put his Padres’ future in question.

Manny Machado announces his intention to test free agency after the 2023 season

The San Diego Padres went all in this off-season to build a super-team for the next few years at least. But superstar third baseman Manny Machado might have derailed that plan with his latest announcement. Machado recently stated that he would be opting out of his deal after the 2023 season to test free agency. Talkin’ Yanks shared the news via Twitter. This update has put the entire MLB world on alert, with many fans wanting their teams to try signing Machado.

In the Tweet, Talkin’ Yanks said, “Manny Machado has confirmed that he will opt out to test the free agency market again next offseason, per @chelsea_janes.” The Padre’s star third baseman is turning 31 this year and is likely to have multiple suitors willing to offer him whatever he wants.

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Fans have reacted to the news and seem excited for Machado to hit free agency. Baseball fans from numerous teams have asked their front offices to sign the star third baseman if they have the chance. But some fans have taken the chance to mock the Padre’s fanbase.

This news is huge as it may lead to a bidding war between teams for Machado’s signature. What’s more surprising is that it came at a time when the Padres seemed set for the foreseeable future. Machado was even seen reuniting with one of his teammates and close friends in Spring Training.

The Padres will have a huge decision to make after the 2023 season

If Manny Machado does indeed opt out of his deal, the San Diego Padres will have a huge decision to make. Several sources list the Padres as one of the teams going after Shohei Ohtani. If Machado opts for free agency, the team may have to decide between which player to offer a massive contract.

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The Padres have a massive payroll and will probably only have space for either Machado or Ohtani. What do you think of the fact that Manny Machado has signaled his intent to enter free agency after the 2023 season? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!