Miami Marlins potential trade candidates

The MLB Trade Deadline is still over two months away, but the discussion over which Miami Marlins players may be dealt is already gaining steam.

The Miami Marlins Major League roster figures to look a lot different following the All-Star break. There is talent on this roster, which will make some veterans attractive to playoff contenders. As the front office sifts through the rubble of this season, which offers will receive the most attention and would there be a chance that some of these core players the team wants to bank the franchise’s future on getting moved for more offense?

It’s a question Joe Frisaro addressed in his most latest story on MLB.com. I look at the current roster and the minor league system and see promise for the future, but plenty of questions on the Major League level.

"“I see about eight or nine players who will be trade targets before the July 31 Trade Deadline,” Frisaro writes. “Right now, the player teams are already checking in on is second baseman Starlin Castro, who is making $11 million, and next year has a club option of $16 million, which includes a $1 million buyout.”"

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I can almost guarantee Castro will be traded by the deadline.

There will be others. We have touched on untouchable players before, some of which might be available if there is an over-the-top offer that Derek Jeter and Michael Hill cannot refuse. I am almost certain Caleb Smith is “safe” unless one of those offers comes along. Sixto Sanchez and Victor Victor Mesa and his brother, Victor Mesa Jr are also off the table. Then, it might get a bit interesting.

We know veterans with short-term contracts are more than likely gone. That means Neil Walker and Curtis Granderson could be dealt. Adam Conley could also grab some interest if he can correct some of his inconsistencies in the bullpen. Sergio Romo has looked good in his brief stay in Miami. It is possible it will remain a layover of sorts.

There is a chance, as Frisaro explained, the team could keep him around to balance an unstable bullpen and add some veteran leadership for youngsters called up after Aug. 1. I like Romo as a multi-purpose player.

The one player we disagree on is Tayron Guerrero, who I still see as the Marlins closer of the future. He is one of the hardest throwing pitchers on the roster and could continue to develop into a lights-out reliever. Sure, a playoff team could use an arm like that, but would the Marlins give that kind of power pitching in a bullpen that is mediocre right now?

A player I am curious about is Martin Prado. Does he have value as a veteran off the bench? His contract – $15 million deal this before hitting free agency – tells me the team may want to get something for him in return instead of letting him walk after this season.

Should the front office let Prado go will mean the Marlins are losing one of their best teachers on the field and in the clubhouse.