Miami Marlins: Giancarlo Stanton might be on his way out of town

Giancarlo Stanton nearly hit 60 home runs this season and could be in position to win his first MVP award, but he is eager to earn a postseason berth. That may not come with the Miami Marlins, which has expressed interest in rebuilding the club next season.

Mike Trout. Giancarlo Stanton. Joey Votto.

A handful of superstars put up gaudy numbers this season, but their teams failed to make the playoffs. For some, it’s a rare occasion. But for others, it’s a commonality.

It’s become a recurring result for Stanton, who is concerned about the Miami Marlins future plans heading forward.

The slugger said he has had enough, dismissing the idea to rebuild. While the Marlins did make a run in the middle of August to propel themselves back into the playoff race, they sputtered in the end, missing the postseason for the 14th straight season.

New owner Derek Jeter did not commit to keeping this year’s leader in home runs in a Miami uniform, so Stanton may have his wish granted. For a team that has a middling pitching rotation and a handful of talented players, a rebuild probably shouldn’t be in the cards, especially because everyone witnessed the team’s competitive abilities in the middle of August.

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But with a change of ownership, anything is possible.

Stanton has enjoyed much of the All-Star lifestyle, capturing a Home Run Derby title, five All-Star appearances and even a second-place finish in the MVP race. But he has yet to take part in a playoff game. At 27, the slugger is getting impatient.

Of course, typically every team in the league would love to have him in the outfield. And if the Marlins decide to sell, a handful of teams stand out. Several teams have already claimed to have an eye on the outfielder in the offseason, including the Giants and the Yankees, who asked about him prior to this year’s deadline.

Even without Stanton, Miami could still prosper thanks to a young crew of promising contributors, such as Marcell Ozuna, Christian Yelich, Justin Bour and Dee Gordon.

But the lingering question mark surrounds the poor platoon of pitchers. The Marlins ranked 26th this season in team ERA. And they do not boast an intimidating group of hurlers for next season, either.

Stanton’s massive contract also plays a substantial role in the organization’s decision to keep him. He will account for more than a quarter of the club’s payroll next year. This means that he will have fewer pieces around him, unless the squad develop prospects in its farm system.

The problem is that Miami’s farm system is one of the worst in the league.

Next: NL Rookie of the Year ballot

Stanton likely won’t stick around, unless Jeter and company are willing to pay the massive amount of money that’s necessary to keep him. While he does provide the team with a leader, impressive numbers and a slew of fans on a daily basis, he may not be the answer in Miami.

By this time next season, Stanton should be donning another team’s jersey.