Andy Martino, SNY.tv | Twitter |
The Yankees remain silent about their pursuit of Manny Machado, and the baseball world is left to guess where the star free agent will ultimately sign. But, as we've previously reported, their interest in the player appears lukewarm. They might land him, but they don't exactly seem thrilled about the possibility.
And now, new information about Troy Tulowitzki's decision to sign with the Yanks makes you wonder again if Machado will indeed choose another team.
Consider this:
-- Although Tulowitzki missed all of last season after undergoing surgery on both heels, scouts were extremely impressed by the athleticism and lateral movement he showed during a Dec. 18 free agent showcase.
-- That showcase led to widespread interest. According to major league sources, Tulowitzki received either offers or genuine interest from 16 teams.
-- The Cubs pursued Tulowitzki to be their starting shortstop, at a minimum for the duration of Addison Russell's domestic violence suspension, according to sources. The Pirates, managed by Tulowitzki's former Rockies skipper Clint Hurdle, wanted him to be their shortstop, per sources. The Angels were interested in him as a third baseman.
So ask yourself this: Why would Tulowitzki, who has made his money and needs only to revive his career, choose the Yankees if they didn't plan to make him their starting shortstop while Didi Gregorius heals from Tommy John surgery? Probably not because he once rooted for Derek Jeter.
If the Yankees don't sign Machado, they have Tulowitzki, Hanser Alberto, Tyler Wade and Gleyber Torres to fill in at short. They could always get Machado and discard the low-risk, low-cost Tulowitzki. And in theory, they could sign Machado to play third base and either trade Miguel Andujar or move him to first.
But as of today, Tulowitzki certainly looks capable (likely?) of being the opening day shortstop.