The Baltimore Orioles have made progress and narrowed their focus to a smaller group of teams in talks to trade shortstop Manny Machado, according to an ESPN report Saturday.
Per the report, the Orioles are "definitely motivated" to find a deal for the four-time All-Star, and they've had extensive talks with the Philadelphia Phillies, who would be major suitors for Machado if he reaches free agency after the season. Baltimore is evaluating several of Philadelphia's top prospects, including right-handers Franklyn Kilome and Adonis Medina, and outfielders Jhailyn Ortiz and Arquimedes Gamboa.
Phillies president Andy MacPhail, general manager Matt Klentak and assistant Ned Rice were all with the Orioles when Machado was drafted in 2010.