Miami Marlins: Grading the Vidal Brujan for Matt Mervis Trade with the Chicago Cubs

The Miami Marlins made another offseason splash, sending super-utility man Vidal Brujan to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for slugger Matt Mervis. Both clubs hope the change in scenery will help the pair of former top prospects get their MLB aspirations back on track.

The Marlins are losing one of the most versatile defenders in baseball. Brujan recorded time at second (31 games), shortstop (28), outfield (22 games across all three spots), third (14), and first (1). While his glove was top-tier, hit bat left much to be desired. Brujan has a lowly .189 batting average during his four-year MLB career with minimal power (just five career homers).

Miami is gaining a prospect with the opposite profile. While his career average (just .155 across 116 MLB at-bats) is equally poor, Mervis has a high upside as a power hitter. The 27-year-old slugger holds a .268 batting average in four minor league seasons. He has also hit a noteworthy 82 home runs over 1,435 at-bats.

Mervis has a classic profile for a modern-day power hitter. His hard-hit metrics are all outstanding. However, his contact and strikeout issues have plagued his major league momentum. While he is far from a sure bet, if Mervis icancrack the code on getting his minor league production to translate to the Miami Marlins roster, he will prove to be a steal at this price tag.

For now, Mervis' best path to playing time would be in a platoon situation at first base alongside Jonah Bride. If he shows signs of improvement, Mervis could also contend for at-bats at DH.

At the end of the day, acquiring Matt Mervis is a low-risk lottery ticket with a potentially high ceiling. this is a great move for Peter Bendix and the Miami Marlins.

Miami Marlins Trade Grade: A