It likely wasn't on purpose, but Manny Machado stepped on the already crushed hearts of Orioles fans Friday at his introductory press conference with the Dodgers.
The just-traded infielder had to make a cosmetic change to the back of his new jersey as LA teammate Max Muncy had already laid claim to No. 13 — the only number Machado has ever known in his professional career. The 26-year-old chose to go with No. 8.
MORE: O's Schoop on missing Machado: 'We ride together, we die together'
This decision appealed to Baltimore fans as it seemed to be an homage to franchise great Cal Ripken Jr. Some fans applauded the switch on social media.
Manny Machado apparently chose no. 8 because of Cal Ripken Jr...
— Dan Clark (@DanClarkSports) July 19, 2018
What a wonderful departing gift and a huge indicator of the great level of respect he has for one of the greatest #Orioles ever. Classy move Manny, we love that so much! #Birdland pic.twitter.com/guO9oV5VyV
Manny Machado will number 8 for his Baltimore Orioles Idol Cal Ripken Jr. for the Dodgers. pic.twitter.com/isKQa6EiHn
— Marylandsportsblog (@MDsportsblog) July 20, 2018
Machado squashed the speculation Friday when he clarified that his decision to go with 8 was, in fact, an homage to Lakers great Kobe Bryant.
Machado said his choice of #8 did not reflect Cal Ripken. It was about “a new beginning.” He’s a huge Kobe Bryant fan and said his dog is named Kobe.
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) July 20, 2018
The comment might have resonated with folks in Tinseltown, but it must have left quite a few O's fans feeling Dodger blue.