The Padres know what they got themselves into when they signed Manny Machado to a 10-year, $300 million contract back in 2019. but they probably didn’t expect they’d have to negotiate a new deal.

This past offseason it looked like the Padres were building for sustained success when they signed or resigned several players. I’m sure they expect to compete for the NL West after ousting the Dodgers in the playoffs last year and Machado is key to their success.

As fans we’re not allowed to be upset when players opt out of contracts because we’d do the same if we were in the same situation-at least that’s what they keep telling us.

I’m guessing that Machado’s next employer won’t sign him to a multi-year deal with an opt-out clause. I don’t think he needs to have a Judgelike season to cash in next year. His ability to play both short and third makes him more valuable.

The Mets might be interested in a new shortstop or third baseman. I’ll be curious to see how the Padres fans react to this news.

Manny Machado plans to opt out of Padres contract after 2023 season: ‘Markets change’ (yahoo.com)