Miami Marlins Winter Meetings Top 3 Needs According to Allen Settle

1) Steal a Superstar Bat to form an In-State Powerhouse

Sound the alarm! We're dreaming big for spot #1!

The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly shopping superstar outfielder Randy Arozarena. While many big-market teams will likely be interested in adding one of the most electric talents in baseball, the small-market Marlins should not count themselves out.

Miami has a need in their outfield after the departure of 2023 star Jorge Soler. What better way to make up for his power void than by trading a perennial All-Start?

Additionally, the Marlins have a growing collection of young arms on team-friendly contracts. While it would be unwise to rely heavily on unproven pitchers to lead the club back to the postseason in 2024, players like Edward Cabrera, Trevor Rogers, Max Meyer, or Noble Meyer undoubtedly have value.

Depending on their level of interest, players like Xavier Edwards or Jacob Berry could even enter the conversation. If the franchise is interested in a blockbuster addition, they have the firepower to swing an Arozarena-level deal.

It is also important to note that Arozarena remains arbitration-eligible until 2026. With a projected 2024 salary of only $7 million, he could potentially join Miami's outfield without destroying the budget. Marlins' new President Peter Bendix, a longtime member of the Rays organization also has the connections and communication pathways to get a seat at the table.

At the end of the day, a tandem of Arozarena and incumbent star Jazz Chisholm Jr. would give the Fish their most dynamic units since a young Giancarlo Stanton, Marcell Ozuna, and Christian Yelich were manning the outfield.

If this trade window is indeed open. Even slightly. The Marlins must do their due diligence. It is new ground for a generally timid and frugal franchise. However, if the club realistically intends to build off last season's postseason berth, adding a star talent like Arozarena would put them in a position to play meaningful baseball in 2024 and beyond.