Miami Marlins trade Ryan Lillie to Cincinnati Reds

The Miami Marlins made a minor trade that could have major implications in the future, sending RHP Ryan Lillie to the Cincinnati Reds for international signing bonus money.

There is no question that the Miami Marlins are looking to make a splash on the international free agent market this offseason. Just like several other teams, they have targets Victor Victor Mesa as their ideal prize, and have sought any possible avenue to get an advantage. Perhaps it is not a coincidence that the Marlins hosted Mesa’s showcase, as well as that of his brother, Victor Mesa Jr., and fellow Cuban pitcher Sandy Gaston.

That quest to potentially land one, if not all three, of the prospects has led to another move. The Marlins sent right handed pitcher Ryan Lillie to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for international signing bonus money.

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Lillie is an intriguing prospect in his own right. The Marlins fifth round selection in the 2017 MLB Amateur Draft, Lillie pitched in three different levels last season. Overall, he had a respectable 3.44 ERA and a 1.105 WHiP, striking out 110 batters with just 24 walks in 117.2 innings. It would not be a surprise to see Lillie begin the year in High-A once again, but a strong showing could lead to a promotion to AA in relatively short order.

There are questions as to what his future will be. Although his low 90s fastball plays up better than its velocity, Lillie has a barely average slider and a mediocre change. It is thought that he will eventually find his way into the bullpen, where he could be an effective weapon. However, with the Reds pitching woes, he will get every chance to start.

For the Marlins, this trade is about gambling on the future. They already have the second most cap room left in regards to the international bonus pool, even if the exact amount they are getting from the Reds is unknown. However, this makes it all the more likely that they will be looking to add both Mesa brothers and Gaston as a package deal.

The Miami Marlins got rid of a somewhat interesting prospect in Ryan Lillie, but the end game could make that move worth it. Of course, they have to land the top international prize in Victor Victor Mesa, his younger brother Victor Mesa Jr., and Sandy Gaston first.