How the Miami Marlins could build a contender by re-doing 6 of their offseason Moves

4) Swing a mini-blockbuster with the Reds

The Cincinnati Reds made two offseason moves to address needs. First, they traded for utility infielder Gavin Lux. Next, they signed corner outfielder Austin Hayes.

Interestingly, the Marlins could offer upgrades at both positions, while simultaneously supplementing their roster. Imagine a world where the Fish traded both Vidal Brujan (who the club ultimately traded to Chicago) and Jesus Sanchez to Cincinnati. The Reds receive a much higher upside corner outfielder, while also adding the replacement for previously traded Johnathan India.

Meanwhile, Miami adds starter Nick Lodolo to their depth chart, further supplementing a position of strength. The emergence of rookie Rhett Lowder, combined with the acquisition of Brady Singer allows Cincy the freedom to make what could be a win-win move.

5) Miami signs starter Jose Quintana over Cal Quantrill

The Marlins originally elected to spend their first meaningful free agency dollar on journeyman starter Cal Quantrill. While the starter will provide valuable innings in South Beach, the deal is less appealing while former Mets starter Jose Quintana is still available.

Quintana brings a significantly higher floor to Miami. Additionally, his postseason heroics also show that he has a higher ceiling than Quantrill.

If Miami indeed made a postseason push with this revamped roster, he would be the perfect #3 starter behind Sandy Alcantara and a returning Eury Perez.

6) Add some cash to upgrade the Eric Wagaman to Randal Grichuk

This, like the swap for Quintana, will require the Marlins to invest some extra cash. However, Grichuk's reported $5 million contract ultimately is not much more than Wagaman's $800,000 deal.

This modest investment would allow Miami to upgrade to an outfielder who hit 12 home runs with a .291 batting average last season.