Marlins Busy as Trade Deadline Descends

It is falling upon us like the night sky only for the Marlins, there is some light here. The Fish are embroiled in several trade rumors, which indicates nothing other than the Malrins are actually buyers at this point in the year, which is a good indication that the brass feels good about getting to the postseason. As they should.

What deals are being looked at as the 4pm deadline looms?

• Nick Johnson ($5.5M and a free agent at season’s end) for Ryan Tucker and/or Aaron Thompson. The Nats are shopping Johnson’s contract in the hopes of netting more young talent. They were rejected Jonathan Sanchez from the Giants in an offer for Johnson. The Marlins would only be responsible for $1.95M of his contract.
• Marlins rejected a deal for Padres closer Heath Bell. Good thing, too because the Padres were asking for Cameron Maybin and Andrew Miller. Um, right. Can anyone say overvalue? Besides, he is having a career year and what kind of an improvement would he really offer on the current bullpen? Better off staying away from that one.
• Roy Halladay – yes, Halladay the ex-Cy Young winner – was a target. More like a heat check as the Marlins inquired but according to Juan C. Rodriguez, no deal unless the Marlins threw in Mike Stanton. That shows you just how highly valued Stanton is although the thought of adding Halladay to this staff gets you drooling.
• Brian Bannister has also been rumored, but the Yankees are also interested. Bannister is 6-7 on the year with a 3.80 ERA – not bad in the AL and is also only due $1.74M.
• There is also a possible reunion with Carl Pavano. The Marlins kicked the tires on Adrian Gonzalez, too – another ex-Marlin – but the Padres want what the Marlins don’t want to part with.

4pm deadline is today so keep your eye open and let’s see if the Fish can add a gun or two to their arsenal. Their playoff chances probably depend on it.

Don't Swim Alone! Share!

•