Fresh off trading for Mets reliever David Robertson, it seems like the Miami Marlins aren’t quite done yet.
They have emerged as potential suitors for outfielder Cody Bellinger, who signed a one-year “prove it” contract with the Chicago Cubs last offseason.
With the Cubs lackluster performance and Bellinger’s impressive statistics this season, trade speculations have been rampant, and now it seems the Marlins are seriously considering adding the former MVP to their roster.
Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reported on the Marlins interest in Bellinger, highlighting his remarkable hitting this year with a batting average of .317, 15 home runs, 46 RBI’s, and an impressive .910 OPS.
Bellinger has proven to be an exceptional hitter with top-notch outfield defensive skills, making him an attractive target for multiple teams in the league.
One of the reasons the Marlins make sense for Bellinger is their need for a reliable center fielder. While Bellinger is versatile and can also play first base and corner outfield positions, the Marlins have been experimenting with Jazz Chisholm in center field, and it hasn’t yielded the desired results.
Chisholm’s -6 defensive runs saved in center field have made the Marlins consider a change, and Bellinger’s addition could significantly bolster their outfield defense.
Adding a player with Bellinger’s defensive ability would be especially beneficial for the Marlins, who are currently in contention for a Wild Card spot.
Sitting just a half game out of the Wild Card, the Marlins find themselves in a more favorable position compared to the struggling New York Yankees, who are 2.5 games back and currently in last place in the AL East.
A trade for Bellinger aligns well with the Marlins ambition to secure a postseason berth and potentially make a deeper run in the playoffs.
Bellinger’s abilities as a center fielder and his proven track record as a hitter are qualities that have drawn the Marlins attention. With the potential to make a significant impact both offensively and defensively, Bellinger could be the missing piece that propels the Marlins further in their postseason push.
However, Bellinger would seem to be a perfect fit on a Yankees team desperate for offensive pop.. Assuming he’s traded, whoever ends up grabbing him will be getting an exceptional player.
Where do you think he will end up?