Sports | July 17, 2018 11:29 am

Report: Dodgers Are Clubhouse Leader to Land Manny Machado From Orioles

The situation remains fluid, but a deal for is thought to be close to a conclusion.

Manny Machado #13 of the Baltimore Orioles in action before the game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Philadelphia Phillies at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on July 12, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

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By Evan Bleier @itishowitis

The Brewers, Phillies, and Diamondbacks are all still in the mix, but the Dodgers have emerged as the frontrunner to land shortstop Manny Machado from the Orioles in a trade.

Machado, an impending free agent, has been rumored to be on the trading block for a long time as Baltimore has an incentive to move him as there’s no indication he would re-sign with them.

The situation regarding Machado “remains fluid,” but the Dodgers “have emerged as a clear leader” in the sweepstakes to acquire the talented infielder, according to Fancred Sports.

Top dodgers OF prospect Yusniel Diaz could be in play in potential Machado deal. Hit 2 bombs in futures game. If so, that may be hard to beat. As said, Dodgers lead as they head toward finish line.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 17, 2018

One thing about potential dodgers Machado deal: they are determined to stay below luxury tax threshold, so they may need to balance the $. Could include high-priced vet to do it.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 17, 2018

Since the Dodgers already have a talented shortstop in their organization in the injured Corey Seager, it is highly likely Machado would simply be a rental for the remainder of the season.

An American League All-Star, Machado is hitting .315 with 24 home runs and 65 RBI this year.

When he hits the free agent market, the 26-year-old should command one of the richest contracts in MLB history.