3 center field trade targets for Miami Marlins
By David Hill
Stop us if you have heard this one before.
The Miami Marlins are looking for a center fielder. It is the same spot they were in during the 2021-22 offseason when they attempted to re-sign Starling Marte and then explored the trade market to bring in that needed fit. Ultimately, none of those plans panned out as the Marlins used a quartet of youngsters to varying degrees of success.
Three trade options for Miami Marlins center fielder opening
In theory, the Marlins should be able to find the pieces they need. They are willing to part with their young pitching, with Pablo Lopez specifically mentioned as a trade candidate. The problem is that there are not many center field options available and the ones that are may not be what the Marlins are specifically looking for.
Who could the Miami Marlins bring in to play center field in 2023? Let’s take a look at three possible options on the trade market.
Adolis Garcia
In theory, Adolis Garcia would be the perfect fit for the Miami Marlins lineup.
He had what could be considered a breakout campaign in 2022, posting a solid .250/.300/.456 batting line with 27 homers and 34 doubles over his 657 plate appearances while stealing 25 bases. Add in the fact that Garcia is under team control for four more years and has yet to reach arbitration and he would be exactly what the Marlins would want.
Garcia also works on the defensive side. While he has graded out better defensively in right, he has more than held his own in center, saving four runs with above average range in his 137 games in the middle of the outfield. As Jorge Soler and Avisail Garcia are both designated hitters masquerading as corner outfielders, having someone with that type of defensive capability is needed.
The problem would be cost. While Garcia might be available, the Rangers are looking to win as soon as possible. If they are going to trade someone who was a key part of their lineup and a dynamic all-around player, the Marlins may end up having to pay more than they would be comfortable with.
Adolis Garcia could be exactly what the Miami Marlins need. He is also likely to be rather costly on the trade front.