Chicago White Sox: 2018 offseason blueprint

Step Four: Go all-in for Manny Machado

Every championship-caliber team needs a star player.

While the White Sox certainly have at least one in their farm system, the addition of a sure-thing would put this team way over the top.

There’s one player in particular that has been linked to the White Sox for a couple of years now. That player is Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Manny Machado.

Machado is a once-in-a-lifetime talent. A several time All-Star, Machado is the best shortstop in all of baseball.

A gold glover, silver slugger and all-world player, the presence of Machado in a young White Sox lineup would provide an impact felt by the entire team.

Besides, the White Sox surely have the money to spend. Machado is due for a $300-million plus payday, but you don’t have this much cap room and not spend it — it’s time for the White Sox to make an explosive move.

Machado is a sure thing. There’s about a 5 percent chance that a signing ends up with Machado hitting .240 with 20 homers. Season-after-season, Machado has consistently been one of the best players in the world. Adding him to the White Sox would not only progress the rebuild, but give the team and fans a different, more positive mentality.

There are few teams with more money to spend. With their young core, the White Sox could be a desirable free agent destination. A lot has to be worked out, but the White Sox will easily win the offseason if they can manage to enter the spring with Machado on their team.