Marlins still open for trade after dealing Luis Arraez to Padres.
The Marlins may not be done dealing after trading Luis Arraez.
The Miami Marlins have already traded one of their best players, sending sharp-hitting infielder Luis Arraez to the San Diego Padres. And apparently, the Marlins aren’t done.
An MLB executive claims that Miami’s “entire team is up for grabs,” via Jon Heyman of The New York Post. has told Jon Heyman of The New York Post.
Miami’s organization has largely been known for fire sales, so this does not come as too much of a surprise. Especially considering that the Marlins are just 10-29. They are pretty much out of contention in the National League, even in today’s game where there are six playoff spots in each league.
After making the postseason in 2023, Miami has been absolutely ravaged by injuries this season. All five of the club’s starting pitchers from last year are currently sidelined, with Jesus Luzardo and Edward Cabrera representing the only two who have even touched the field in 2024.
The Marlins’ offense has also seen a massive dip in production, and it’s not like Miami’s bats were exactly world-beaters last season. It’s also important to note that the club’s top power hitter from last year, Jorge Soler, signed with the San Francisco Giants in free agency.
So, who are the next Marlins players that could be on the move?
Josh Bell and Jake Burger are prime trade candidates
Miami Marlins designated hitter Josh Bell (9) is congratulated by first baseman Jake Burger (36) after hitting a home run in the first inning at loanDepot Park.
Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
Obviously, saying that “the entire team is up for grabs” needs some context.
Does this also mean that Miami is open to trading superstar pitcher Sandy Alcantara, who is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery? Probably not. Is talented young center fielder Jazz Chisholm also available? Perhaps.
You have to think that Alcantara and Eury Perez—also sidelined after undergoing Tommy John—are untouchable. The Marlins also probably won’t want to move fellow starter Braxton Garrett. Heyman mentions that Jesus Luzardo is a trade candidate, but given that he is a young lefty coming off of a very strong 2023, Miami would probably ask for a lot in return for him.
Josh Bell and Jake Burger, on the other hand, seem like prime candidates to be moved.
The Marlins acquired both players at the trade deadline last summer. Both infielders did a terrific job for the team in 2023 and played massive roles in pushing Miami to a playoff berth. This season, however, Bell and Burger have struggled mightily. Bell owns a .201/.290/.306 slash line. Burger sits at .203/.250/.362.
How much either player would fetch at this point is debatable given their struggles thus far, but it’s important to note that Burger smashed 34 home runs and posted an OPS of .828 last season. He owns a lifetime .792 OPS and is still just 28 years old, so he has some value.
Then there is outfielder Bryan De La Cruz, who has been the Marlins’ best hitter in 2024 with a .269/.315/.474 slash line. He has hit eight long balls and has driven in 21 runs, and at 27 years old, he could be a decent piece somewhere else.
