Miami Marlins: 5 Prospects to Demand in a Starting Marte Trade

5. C Rafael Marchan – Philadelphia Phillies No. 4 Prospect

The first team that could possibly be in-play for Marte over the next week is an NL East division foe in the Phillies. Now yes, Miami will most-likely want to deal their star outfielder outside of the division, but there is no denying they could get a nice return from Philadelphia, a team they have made a big trade with before (JT Realmuto).

The Phillies may not have the biggest pure “need” in center field with Odubel Herrera and Travis Jankowski having manned the position, but a potential addition of Marte would be an instant upgrade. When looking at which prospect Miami should demand, top catching prospect Rafael Marchan makes a lot of sense.

Marchan originally signed with the Phillies back in 2015, and reached the big leagues for the first time with Philadelphia during the 2020 season going 4/8 with a HR and three RBI’s. Splitting time this season between the big leagues and Triple-A Lehigh Valley, Marchan is seemingly blocked by the previously mentioned Realmuto at the position, whom the Phillies signed to a five-year extension this offseason.

While the 22-year old backstop would be a nice backup option for the Phillies, he is a player that could help Philadelphia land a piece via trade to help a team that is currently 3.5 GB of first in the NL East.

Marchan is considered as an elite defensive catcher, which allowed him to make the jump from A-Ball to the big leagues in 2020, even making his major league debut against the Marlins last season. Also an excellent contact hitter, it’s clear that Marchan is ready to become a starting major league catcher right now.

If the Miami Marlins want to improve their catching depth with a prospect ready to start full-time in 2022, Marchan is a clear choice should the Marlins flip Marte to their NL East division foes.