Machado is 26. There isn't a team in baseball who should not be at least making a call. Who says you can't obtain an asset a year early??? Especially once you get yourself in position only to realize that the piece you need isn't out there?
I'm not advocating a particular player per se. What I am advocating is not letting useful cash rot when it could be a forward payment for the next window - if you expect that window to open in 1-2 years. Even if you don't contend in 2019, if the player you get early is someone you can "win your next championship with", then he's worth the investment.
I don't have an issue with punting for the moment, but I do have an issue if the cash you are saving is not invested into your next possession.
I also don't mind if they don't land one of those guys, knowing there are 29 other teams out there. But don't let the 2019 budget hamstring your ability to efficiently use 2020 dollars. If you have the cash then with no players, then what does that buy you?