CHICAGO — The idea of Manny Machado joining Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo in a powerhouse lineup sure is a tantalizing one.

Whether that happens or not, the Chicago Cubs are banking on the players they have to perform up to expectations. So far, that hasn’t happened. And if fans are frustrated, president of baseball operations Theo Epstein understands.

“I think we should have high expectations,” he said Friday. “I think this group has earned a tremendous amount of trust. It’s OK to be really frustrated with our inability to really get locked in and get hot and play up to our talent and our expectations, while at the same time being really optimistic.”

Epstein insisted his team has not engaged in trade talks, despite speculation about a deal with Baltimore for Machado.

“There have been a lot of trade rumors about the Cubs, and there’s essentially zero trade talks,” Epstein said.

The Manny Watch intensified in Chicago this week when the Orioles visited the White Sox. The three-time All-Star has an expiring contract and could be dealt this season.