Miami Marlins Trade Rumors: Do the Braves need J.T. Realmuto?

There has been little movement in trade talks concerning Miami Marlins catcher J.T. Realmuto. Will the Atlanta Braves step forward and make a deal?

I might not be the only one who thinks the Miami Marlins keep catcher J.T. Realmuto on the roster at the beginning of the season. If the growing concerns over the package the organization is looking for in a trade scenario continue, then No. 11 may very well be the team’s Opening Day backstop on 2019.

Don’t get too happy about it, Marlins fans. It will be for a short stay as the 27-year-old could still find a new home by the MLB Trade Deadline.

One team rumored to be at the top of the list of “contenders” for Realmuto’s services, the Atlanta Braves, signed Brian McCann in the offseason, but remain on every prognosticator’s radar along with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Astros and a host of other franchises.

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One website, in particular, Fansided’s atlallday.com, believes the organization should shy away from any trade talk with the Miami Marlins.

Hallelujah!

"“Realmuto is a good player and a top five catcher in the League, still, Atlanta would be better served not to spend on a catcher they do not need,” writes Kit Anderson.“Atlanta has a myriad of holes to fill on their roster. The rotation, bullpen, bench, and outfield all need addressing before the off-season ends.”"

The Marlins have their fair share of needs as well.

Looking at the wish list, it would seem trading their top player and one of the best all-around catchers in the game today should be the least of their concerns. Still, this is what the front office is looking to add after the new year.

• An everyday closer
• Depth off the bench
• A power hitter at first base
• A veteran presence out of the bullpen

If the Marlins trade Realmuto (more like when), they too will need to find a catcher to replace his athleticism and his hitting. It’s a constant cycle of the redefinition of a franchise that is not on firm ground. The front office isn’t “forced” to do anything, but here it is trying to play “Let’s Make A Deal.”

The Dodgers, Padres, Rays, Brewers, Reds, and Yankees continue to be linked to a deal along with the Braves. All of these organizations would have to relinquish top prospects and MLB players in a deal that many think is too over the top.

That’s what happens when Giancarlo Stanton forced the team’s hand last season. Besides that, Atlanta has two catchers on its 25-man roster.

"“The Braves have signed Brian McCann and Tyler Flowers as their starting catcher tandem for the 2019 season.” Anderson added. “The continued rumors surrounding the Braves and Realmuto make little sense for a team with other holes to fill.”"

Before the team brought McCann back for a reunion, the team made no secret about its desire to get Realmuto. Now, it seems the idea to acquire yet another man behind the plate might be ill-served for both organizations.