3 Catchers the Miami Marlins could look at Adding via Trade

The Marlins have said they are looking at upgrades for both shortstop and catcher and they have an abundance of talent in a few places. If the Marlins can put together a deal for a team that needs a young outfield prospect or pitching prospect they could snag someone and if the next month’s schedule plays out like it should they will be in the thick of the hunt come July. We will take a look at 3 catchers that could be options for the Marlins to acquire via trade.

MJ Melendez

Melendez has been relegated to the outfield due to the Royals need for outfield bats as well as the presence of Salvador Perez on the roster.  Melendez provides a boost as he is a left handed bat for the lineup.  He has hit 5 home runs and driven in 22 this season with a slash line of .208/.296/.360 with an OPS at .656.  

Even more impressive though is his .288 BAbip and 56% hard hit numbers, and last year he three out 28% of base runners which is a great improvement as compared to the current sub 10% for both Marlins catchers.  The Miami native could be a great homecoming story if the Marlins can snag him.

Yan Gomes

Gomez is probably one of the most accessible catchers on the market as he is a free agent next year if the team option is not engaged. Gomez is the best option for the defense and pitching of Miami as he is a veteran catcher and he has thrown out 5 of 20 on stolen base attempts this year.  Gomez is less of a bat however than the rest but has shown a power increase this year with 6 home runs and 19 RBI.  

His slash line sits at .280/.304/.458 with an OPS of .762 and his home run percentage (5.2%) and  strikeout percentage (18.3%) are big improvements over other options, something Kim Ng would favor.  Gomes’ 5.2% home run rate is a huge improvement over his 3.6% career average and could be the stat that wins over Marlins brass paired with his high average and lower strikeout percentage.