MLB Trade Deadline: Which Miami Marlins Are Untouchable?

Untouchable # 2: Giancarlo Stanton  

Okay, not a lot of new and enlightened analysis to offer here.  And if you’re thinking putting a guy with a $325 million contract on a list of “Untouchables” is just a bit pointless, I can definitely see your argument.

None of that changes the fact he’s one of the top talents in the game though, a lineup transforming threat that impacts everything opposing pitchers do.  His immense power is a huge fan draw; even players on the team he’s facing that day will come out to watch him take batting practice.  The title of “Home Run Derby” champ carries some cache too.  Between that and the existence of that player opt-out so many are eager to point out, he’s still worth a massive haul.

He’s amazing.  A bargain this year, and reasonably priced in the next.  Then, yes, he’ll be one of the highest paid players in baseball.  But in terms of that two-year title lens I’m viewing the Marlins organization through, the rest of those years don’t really matter here.  They’re not contending without him, and they clearly intend to contend. He’ll be slugging away here for at least three more seasons, and hopefully much longer.  He only gets moved if everything else goes wrong, for multiple years, and the Dodgers come calling.

Next: The Most Untouchable