Miami Marlins: 6 Star-Caliber Players to Consider Trading Pitching Depth For
By Matt Melton
6. C Willson Contreras
2021 Season Stats: .233 AVG, .344 OBP, .430 SLG, .774 OPS, 16 HR, 35 RBI, 4 SB
Arguably the top catcher that Miami could realistically get via a trade is Contreras, one of the top two-way catchers in baseball. In fact, when looking at a potential fit between the Marlins and Contreras, bringing the two-time All-Star and former World Series Champion to Miami is a move that makes sense for multiple reasons.
Still only 29-years old, Contreras is under control for the 2022 season, and would be an instant upgrade at catcher for the Marlins, a position that arguably needs it going into next season. Contreras is a name that has been mentioned as possibly being available at the deadline, and is a catcher that Miami could easily go get to provide an instant upgrade.
5. OF Byron Buxton
2021 Season Stats: .369 AVG, .409 OBP, .767 SLG, 1.176 OPS, 10 HR, 19 RBI, 5 SB
Buxton has been discussed previously as a long-term option for Miami in center field, and the likelihood that he gets traded is increasing after Buxton and Minnesota were unable to agree on an extension. However, if a Buxton trade happens, it will most-likely come in the offseason rather than the deadline.
Before landing on the 10-day IL, Buxton was enjoying a massive breakout season for the Twins slashing .369/.409/.767 across 103 at-bat’s. While the injury concern will be there, there in no denying that Buxton would instantly provide elite defense and speed in center field, along with improving power offensively.