2 pitchers that could be trade targets for the Miami Marlins

2 of 2

The Miami Marlins are looking to buy and increase their playoff chances, and pitching is a big part of their needs. The Marlins have struggled after the All-Star break and their starting pitching and bullpen have been a mess. The bullpen in particular has given up leads on multiple outings and looks worn out from their overuse in the first half of the season, would the Pittsburgh Pirates be a trade partner to help build the Marlins chances?

Option 1 - Mitch Keller

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced they would be open to hearing trade proposals for two of their pitchers, and the Marlins could use one or both. The first big option is starting pitcher Mitch Keller, which the Pirates are open to hearing offers for, and Keller would be a great pick to help round out the Marlins rotation. Keller is on a one year contract for $2.44 million and is under team control until 2026, so the best part of the trade would be the long term control of Keller, rather than a half season rental like most deadline deals.

Keller is 9-6 with a 4.01 ERA this season and was an All-Star for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Keller is a five year starter and has a 1.195 WHIP and both his walk and strikeout numbers have greatly improved this season. This could be a preview of things to come for Keller and the Marlins staff could use a pitcher to eat some innings, rather than having bullpen games until Eury Perez can return. Keller might be a costly option however, and the Marlins don't have much depth in their system and hitting is also a huge priority. Since Keller is under control for so long he might cost a few different prospects, and Xavier Edwards would be a great fit for the deal, along with one other prospect.

Option 2 - David Bednar

The Miami Marlins could use David Bednar as of late, as their current closer A.J. Puk is definitely struggling to close out games and could end up being a set up man at best. The Marlins brass and management might not have the best opinion of him going forward and if they can acquire a quality closer, I could see them making the move.

Bednar is having a stellar season with 19 saves and a 1.15 ERA with a 0.949 WHIP, and most impressively he has only 1 blown save on the season. Bednar is another All-Star and his numbers are amazing and he has crushed his career averages to date. He is averaging 0.2 home runs, 2.1 walks, and 10.8 strikeouts per nine innings. Bednar was the closer last season for the Pirates as well with 19 saves on the season, which goes to his resume as a more seasoned closer than the Marlins Puk.

Puk has struggled as of late in the closer spot and has only 15 saves on the season and 5 blown saves. His 4.45 ERA and 1.206 WHIP just go to show he has not been consistent enough this season to be the closer and the Marlins need help. Puk's hits and home runs per 9 inning average have gone up this season as well, as he has given up 6 home runs in 32.1 innings.

The Marlins would be wise to inquire on the price for Bednar from the Pirates and if the asking price is anywhere near Aroldis Chapman, they need to make the deal. Time will tell but I would easily part with a AAA prospect or two to acquire a quality closer like Bednar.

Miami Marlins Heart of the Lineup Needs help. dark. Next. Miami Marlins Heart of the Lineup Needs help

Home / Marlins News