The Orioles called up 20 year old Manny Machado last night. All you JJ Hardy owners do not need to worry. He is not replacing Hardy nor will he get much time at SS this season. He was called up more for his slick glove work than his hitting. He will get the majority of his playing time at 3B. He should get a solid 10 game look there and replace Wilson Betemit.
Machado only has 219 total minor league games under his belt with just 109 coming above A ball. The 3rd overall pick in 2010 ranks as a top 10 prospect though. His current stat line in the minors was a .266 Average with 11HR 26 doubles and 13 SB. With the Orioles in a playoff race they are trying anything to get a spark to catch fire and finish strong.
Machado is worth a flier in 1 year leagues and a must own in all Dynasty formats. Currently owned in 6% of leagues, I see that jumping to over 20% by the weekend. I expect Machado to hit 9th in the Orioles order and try to steal early and often when he does reach base. He could give you some needed MI help and will qualify for 3B in a week. Don’t anticipate any power numbers this year and he could be a drain on your team’s batting average too. I will take a wait and see approach before I pick him up on any of my teams.
Manny looks great, but could this actually be a better time to sell high? He most likely won't have SS eligibility next year and I have a hard time projecting him as a top 10 at thridbase in the next few years. This might be the best oppertunity to take advantage of the hype and avoid another Melvin Mora at 3rd next year.
ReplyDeleteGood to hear from you again Ed!!
ReplyDeleteIt may be hard to find some takers due to him only being owned in 30% of leagues. I knew his stock would rise from the 6% ownership at the time of this post. But if you can pick him up and flip him while the fire is hot I would agree to do so. As far as the SS eligibility going into next year, there is still time for the O's to falter and if they do he will get a few chances at SS and therefor a possibility to qualify for SS going into 13'. Im one league I have Sandoval, Lawrie and now Middlebrooks on the DL...I am picking up Manny.
Keep your eye on Brett Wallace too. Played the last 5 games at 3B. I'm in the same boat right now with Jose Bautista, Alex Rodriguez, & Trevor Plouffe all on the DL. I've been platooning Scott Rolen and Chipper Jones for 2 weeks.
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