Six Low-Cost Position Players the Miami Marlins should Target in Free Agency

#3: Tim Anderson, SS

The longtime White Sox star is easily the most controversial name on this list. At this best, Anderson has been an All-Star, batting title champion, Silver Slugger winner, and fringe MVP candidate.

At his worst, however, he is a low OBP, a very modest source of power and speed (one HR and 13 SB in 2023), and is getting embarrassed in a fight against Jose Ramirez.

Unfortunately, all of the lowlights in the latter column came last season. Anderson swiftly saw his reputation as a premier source of batting average, his combination of power and speed, and his All-Star reputation crumble.

However, Anderson remains just 30-years-old. While he has always lacked the ability to produce walks, we have a seven-plus-year sample size that proves the longtime Chicago star has top-tier contact ability. It would be unwise to assume this skill completely dried up in what should be his baseball prime.

Spotrac has Anderson's projected market value at just $5.1 million per season, which would easily be the lowest since his very early career. Miami desperately needs an everyday shortstop and Anderson is a discounted veteran with a real possibility of bouncing back.

It isn't a sure thing, but this signing appears to be a low-risk, high-reward potential perfect for the small-market Marlins.

Bargain Shortstop Honorable Mentions: Brandon Crawford (SFG), Kiké Hernández (LAD)

#2: Victor Caratini, C

In a perfect world, the Marlins would pursue Rangers' catcher Mitch Garver when he becomes a free agent. However, he will likely carry a high price tag after his regular and post-season success in 2023. This leaves Brewers' backup Victor Caratini as the best "bargain bin" option for the Marlins.

Caratini performed quite well as a backup to starter William Contreras. He posted modest but solid numbers including a .259 batting average, 25 RBI, and seven homers across 62 games and 201 at-bats in 2023.

The former Miami Dade College star is also a plus defender ranking as a top-10 pitch framer amongst all catchers in MLB. He would be a great starter or platoon option alongside Jacob Stallings. Judging by his contract history, Caratini could be signed for anywhere between $2.5 and $4 million per season.

Catcher Honorable Mention: Tom Murphy (SEA)