Time is running out for the Marlins to add a batter or two

If the Miami Marlins are going to make a trade where they receive help in the middle of the order, time is running out.

As we talked about over the course of the last month, the Marlins major weakness right now is a lack of power hitting and producing runs. Miami is still last in the Majors in runs hit and near the bottom in almost every statistical offensive category. Discussions about adding one or more power hitters may involve a decision to part with a controllable starting pitcher.

The team knows that any of the veterans who have been discussed in possible trade deals won’t be able to yield the kind of return the team needs to make an instant impact. Someone like Starlin Castro will be a solid addition as a bench player for a playoff contender, but he does not have the same kind of presence as the young arms this organization possesses.

Same holds true for Sergio Romo, although he is having a solid year in the closer’s role. Also, Curtis Granderson and Neil Walker are role players at best who could provide some spark off the bench but are not typical problem solvers for a postseason contender.

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The Marlins would more than likely seek a trade to add a bat rather than look at free agency because of its small market payroll and the fact that there may not be a player out there to their liking.

According to Joe Frisaro of MLB.com, somebody like Jose Abreu of the Chicago White Sox might be a player worth watching over the next couple of days. The Marlins won’t be looking to add an aged veteran, rather somebody who is young, already on a major league roster, or is just about ready to make his debut.

With the potential of adding an impact player comes the decision of which pitcher would The Marlins part with. There have been recent stories about Trevor Richards potentially being “the guy“ who finds his way onto another roster. There’s also been discussion about Caleb Smith as a prime trade chip.

“The Marlins are listening, and if they get an overwhelming offer, they might pull the trigger on a deal,” Frisaro writes. “But that is risky because it weakens the Miami rotation and reduces overall depth.”

Both starters have controllable contracts of more than four years, which makes it a bit difficult for the front office to part with them. Also given the success that Smith has enjoyed this year, currently with a 6-4 record, Miami may not be willing to let him go without an over the top offer.

It was once believed that Jose Ureña would be the top targets of teams looking for a veteran arm towards a playoff push. His back injury which placed him on the 60-day I.L. changed the team’s landscape and their plans at the trade deadline.

It’s still possible that he could be traded this off-season which would afford the team a chance to bring in another hitter for 2020.