Ranking the Miami Marlins Trade Chips According to their Moveability

The Miami Marlins sparked what we can assume will be an active trade season when they moved former batting title champion Luis Arraez to the San Diego Padres earlier this year. It now appears evident that the club will not attempt to build off of last season’s surprise Wild Card berth, instead, option for a full rebuild under new President enter Bendix.

While several current Marlins will likely not be with the franchise during the second half of the season, the club must expertise wisdom as they decide which players to sell and which to retain. In that vein, here are three tiers of potential trade candidates.

Tier #1: The Must-Move Veterans

First baseman Josh Bell and closer Tanner Scott headline with must-trade category.

While Bell was a key cog in last season’s late success, the 31-year-old infielder doesn’t make sense as a long term option. The fact that his $6.5 million salary is the ninth-highest amongst 1B will shrink his market. However, his steady bat (.243 batting average) and his clear power potential would make him an ideal target for a contender seeking a boost at 1B or DH. The Marlins should be content to get his salary off the books for a low-to-mid-level prospect.

Scott on the other hand, could yield a higher return in the right trade. The veteran lefty is coming off a career year in 2023, in which he recorded 12 saves, including locking down the ninth inning during the last stretch to the postseason. He also posted a dazzling 2.31 ERA and a 0.987 WHIP.

While Scott’s 2024 campaign got off to a shaky start, he has reestablished himself as a premier closer with his 1.57 ERA. The combination of past control issues, plus his elevated 1.304 WHIP may be causes for minor concerns. However, several key contenders including the Dodgers, Phillies, Orioles, Royals, and more could use bullpen upgrades. Miami would be wise to target a package with a mid-level prospect in exchange for Scott’s services.