Manny Machado has been hitting the headline lately like a fastball pitched at a blazing speed. The reason for this? Well, let’s just say his contract negotiations have been a wild ride. After initially signing a 10-year deal with the San Diego Padres, Machado threatened to jump ship after just five years. But the Padres didn’t let their star player slip away that easily. They offered him a staggering $350 million, 11-year deal, adding an extra six years to his previous contract. And with a no-opt-out clause in place, it’s safe to that Machado will remain a Padre for life.

It’s no secret that Machado is an ace up the Padres’ sleeves. He’s like the unnamed captain of the clubhouse. And his teammates clearly recognize this, especially Juan Soto. At a recent press conference announcing his contract extension, the room was filled with Padres players. The relief in the air was palpable, knowing their cornerstone was here to stay. It’s clear to say that Machado has won the hearts of his teammates. Now the question arises, who is next in line for a contract extension? 

The next name on baseball fans’ lips is Juan Soto 

With Manny Machado secured for the long haul, the Padres should get ready to lock in their other key players. The name on baseball fans’ lips is Juan Soto. The outfielder was present at Machado’s press conference, seated front, and center. And he looked as if he knew something that nobody else did…

The Padres fans are excited about the prospect of Soto signing an extension and with good reason.

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It’s safe to say that the Friers are not likely to let him slip away either. And if they do sign him, the team will have a formidable duo that could be their rock for many successful seasons to come.

Manny Machado has the same sentiment as the fans 

Manny Machado seems to agree with the Padres fans’ sentiment as well. He has spoken out in support of Juan Soto’s potential contract extension, “I mean, obviously, with the contracts that we got, [Xander Bogaerts]. Myself. Hopefully, Soto next, you know I mean it’s great, we wanna win, you know we’ve been building here since day one.” He continued, “I’m gonna do whatever it is for this team, I’m gonna do whatever it is so they can go out and continue to put this great team out there and keep building.”

Machado’s words have only added fuel to the already blazing fire of fan and teammate support for Soto. And if Soto indeed gets his extension, it will be yet another reason for a celebration on the streets of San Diego!

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