Diamondbacks' Near Miss: The Manny Machado Trade That Almost Was

Why this matters: Trade decisions can have long-lasting and unforeseen consequences for sports teams. The Diamondbacks' experience illustrates how missing out on one player can open doors to acquiring another who ultimately becomes more valuable to the team. This emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in team management.

The 2018 MLB trade deadline saw the Diamondbacks in a position to make a significant move. Their interest in Manny Machado was no secret, as they sought to bolster their offense for a playoff push. However, the deal fell through, and Machado landed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Instead, the Diamondbacks acquired Eduardo Escobar, who provided a steady presence at third base.

Looking back, the decision not to trade Jazz Chisholm Jr. for Machado had a ripple effect. Chisholm was later traded for Zac Gallen, who emerged as an ace pitcher for the Diamondbacks. Gallen's performance, including multiple top-ten Cy Young finishes, was instrumental in the team's success, culminating in a 2023 World Series appearance.

The Dodgers, with Machado, reached the World Series in 2018 but fell short of a championship. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks navigated a different path, one that ultimately led to a different kind of success. This demonstrates the complex interplay of decisions and outcomes in baseball, where a single trade can alter the course of a franchise.

They wanted to improve their offense and make a push for the playoffs.

They acquired Eduardo Escobar.

Jazz Chisholm Jr., who would have been traded for Machado, was later traded for Gallen.

Gallen became an All-Star pitcher and helped the team reach the 2023 World Series.

No, the Dodgers lost to the Boston Red Sox in the 2018 World Series.

The Diamondbacks' near acquisition of Manny Machado in 2018 illustrates how a single trade decision can significantly alter a team's trajectory. Missing out on Machado indirectly led to the acquisition of Zac Gallen, who became a cornerstone player for the franchise. While Machado went on to play for the Dodgers, the Diamondbacks' path ultimately resulted in a different but meaningful form of success, including a World Series appearance. This story underscores the unpredictable nature of baseball and the importance of adaptability in team management.

Do you think the Diamondbacks would have been more successful with Manny Machado in 2018? Or did things work out for the best with the acquisition of Zac Gallen? Let us know your thoughts!

Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!