What the Future May Hold for the Fish

As reported for the past few days, the Miami Marlins are one step closer to being sold. What does that mean for the team and players’ future in Miami?

With the possibility of new ownership for the Miami Marlins, there are a few different routes that the organization can take. Obviously the ultimate goal of the ownership will be to bring another championship to Miami. But, how long will that take and how dedicated will they be?

As Marlins fans, we are used to being in the basement when it comes to player spending. We are also very familiar with what seems to be an annual fire sale of star players. These are things that we have come to expect with Jeffrey Loria at the helm.

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With the possibility of new ownership comes the unknown. Will they be big spenders on the free agent market? What will they do to replenish are dwindling farm system? How long will it be before the Marlins return to the throne as World Series Champions?

I aim to explore a few options that the Marlins could make in the future. These options may not be favorable to the fans in the short term, but, long term could pay dividends in making steps towards another championship.

Rebuild the system

If this sale is finalized, assuming new management takes over this year, they will be walking into a $120 million mess. Yes, you read that right, mess. Courtesy of spotrac, we can view what players will be earning this year as well as next.

The top three earners for the Marlins are Giancarlo Stanton at $14.5 million, Wei-Yin Chen at $11.6 million, and Martin Prado at $11.5 million. Just amongt those three you have a quarter of the Marlins payroll. Those numbers are set to increase substantially, thanks to back-loaded contracts.