Aug 12, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins third baseman Martin Prado (14) hits an RBI single during the sixth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Martin Prado
The Miami Marlins were reluctant to move Martin Prado at the trade deadline, looking for a big return for his services. The same will hold true now, as MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro feels the team would only move Prado for a big return.
He suggested Greg Bird to a fan on Twitter, but that is a ridiculous price tag, something the New York Yankees would have to be absolutely crazy to even entertain. Bird, a 22-year old first base prospect, made his debut with the Yanks last week and was rated as the 3rd best prospect in the Yankees farm system by John Sickels prior to the season.
Bird is not a realistic get for the Miami Marlins and if that’s what they ask for, Prado is likely to remain with the team. However, if the team has a realistic expectation for a Prado price tag, a deal is more likely, though it would have to be a bit of an overpay, as Prado is under team control for a reasonable salary next season.
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On the season, Prado owns a .272/.314/.353 slash line with a 83 wRC+. His offense grades out 17% worse than league average, which looks even worse at an offensive dependent third base position. Prado owns a 0.6 fWAR in 389 plate appearances and ZiPS does not see him reaching replacement level (2.0 fWAR) for the season.
Prado has seen his power sapped (.081 ISO) this season, which has hurt his value a lot. The majority of his value lies on the defense he provides at the hot corner.
Maybe Martin Prado could benefit from the Marlins potentially moving the fences in for the 2016 season, but more than likely his best days are behind him. Rather than overvalue his importance in the clubhouse, the team should be open to moving Prado and giving Derek Dietrich a shot at third base, as he holds some upside.
Next: Mike Dunn