Catch and Release:
Why it Makes No Sense for the Marlins to Trade Giancarlo Stanton Right Now
As is always
the case around July 31st, the MLB trade rumors are heating up. The
biggest discussion seems to be whether the Miami Marlins will part ways with star
outfielder Giancarlo Stanton. Well, I’m here to tell you that it would be a
mistake. There are some who also feel this way, but trade rumors, like
vampires, never die unless a wooden stake is driven right into the heart. There
are way too many reasons for the Marlins to hold onto Stanton, and even someone
like Jeffrey Loria has to be able to see that.
The most
important reason is team control. Stanton is earning $537,000 this season, and
will become a free agent until after the 2016 season. He does become
arbitration eligible after next season and will see his salary increase for
sure but the Marlins will still be retaining him at a less than market wage.
For a penny pinching owner like Loria, why give up right now on a star player
with that type of deal? The team needs someone to build around and be the face
of the franchise and who better than Stanton.
The second
reason to not trade him is the roster around him. Make no mistake the Marlins
are no threat to be winning World Series but they have some good young pieces
that have developed quicker than the team expected. Keep the core intact and
see what they can do.
Once again,
despite the penchant of Loria to hold these fire sales and unload anyone and
everyone, there is precedent for him keeping young, team controlled talent. In
2003 after the Marlins won the World Series they got rid of every piece they
could except for some guy named Miguel Cabrera, not sure if you’ve ever heard
of him. When Loria knew he no longer had leverage and Cabrera would not be
sticking around and signing a long term deal; that is when he pulled the
trigger on a trade. I see the same situation occurring with Stanton. He will be
traded but it won’t be until 2015-2016. By that time the Marlins will have
developed the talent around him and will be in the hunt for the playoffs. Plus
the haul they take in for Stanton at that point will most likely be greater
than what they get now.
Another
factor to consider when it comes to Stanton is that he is only 23 years old.
He, like the rest of his teammates isn’t a fully developed player. He still has
some learning to do and has a much higher ceiling to ascend to. The power is
there for sure, as is the rocket for an arm in right field but his swing
selection and understanding of the strike zone still need some improvement.
It is
perfectly understandable for teams to feel like they can catch the big fish
because a team like the Marlins is always willing to listen. However, let’s
hope even Jeffrey Loria isn’t dumb enough to screw this up and doesn’t pull the
trigger prematurely. My advice would be this: the lines will always be cast in
the ocean, and it’s ok to nibble on all the worms, but wait for that one hook
with the irresistible bait and let it reel you in.
