Marlins gave a “powerful” push to Starling Marte

Via TC Zencka | November 27, 2021 in 12:32 pm CDT

Marlins was above Starling Marte until the central quarterback signed a four-year, $78 million deal to join the Mets, according to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman (via Twitter). The Marlins made a “strong” offer, but not one that matched the Mets’ financial commitment, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald (via Twitter). The Marlins aren’t the only team more highly rated by the Mets, who have flexed their financial strength to not only Marte, but also Mark Canha and Eduardo Escobar, according to the New York Post’s Joel Sherman (via Twitter).

Centrefield remains one of the Marlins’ biggest needs, although they may need to get creative now that Marte has left the board. Utility Gems Chris Taylor is the only inspirational option left on the free agent board with a substantial experience training center. The rest of the field consists of veteran names that are more likely to be considered redundant. This group includes Brett Gardner, Joc Pederson, Billy Hamilton, Ender Inciarte, Odubel Herrera, Jake Marisnick, Brian Goodwin, and several others.

If the season starts today, the Marlins will have Bryan De La Cruz, Lewis Brinson, and Monte Harrison is their main choice. De La Cruz, 24, will be a Plan A after putting together a strong performance in the second half of 2021. The right-hander slashed .296 / .356 / .427 in 219 appearances after being awarded .296 / .356 / .427 acquired from Astros along with Austin Pruitt exchange for reliever medication Yimi Garcia.

With De La Cruz at least proving his midfield control, the Marlins are also exploring the addition of corner bats. Nick Castellanos is a name they like, despite his potentially high price tag, according to Jon Heyman of the MLB Network (via Twitter). Castellanos’ big bat is sure to provide a much-needed boost to Miami’s roster, although it would be a surprise to see the slugger end up in Miami, given the hypothetical prices for his services. he.