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Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez. David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Targets for the Marlins at the trade deadline

By Beau Adams | Last updated 7/25/23

The Miami Marlins are in a strong position this season, with a legitimate shot at making the playoffs. They currently hold the final National League wild card spot with a record of 54-47 (.535).

As the Aug. 1 trade deadline approaches, the Marlins have an opportunity to bolster their roster and increase their chances of securing a postseason birth.

Salvador Perez, C, Kansas City Royals

One area where the Marlins could use an upgrade is at the catcher position. Currently ranked 29th in WRC+ across MLB, the Marlins' catchers have struggled offensively. Salvador Perez of the Kansas City Royals would be a significant improvement.

Despite not being a great defender, Perez has a .725 OPS this season and 17 home runs, tied for the most among AL catchers. Although he is on a substantial contract, his defensive concerns may drive down his trade value, making him an affordable option for the Marlins.

1B Ryan Noda, 1B, Oakland A's

The Miami Marlins could benefit from adding offensive firepower to their lineup. Ryan Noda, a rookie first baseman for the Oakland Athletics, could be a valuable addition. With an impressive on-base percentage of .375, Noda ranks among the top-five qualified hitters in the American League. His ability to draw walks and provide some power would be a massive boost to the Marlins' offense.

While the Marlins' current first baseman, Garrett Cooper, has been solid, Noda would add another dimension to the team's offensive production. A trade of RHP prospect Karson Milbrandt and C Paul McIntosh would be enough to move Noda to Miami.

Ryan Noda launches a 2-run shot! pic.twitter.com/Hh8lmSSQ9Q
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 5, 2023

Shane Bieber, SP, Cleveland Guardians

Rumors have circulated that the Guardians may be willing to trade their star pitcher, Shane Bieber. Adding Bieber to their rotation would give the Marlins a solid trio of starting pitchers, alongside reigning Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara.

Despite a slight decline in performance this season, Bieber remains a productive pitcher with a knack for avoiding walks. While there are concerns about the hard contact he has allowed, Bieber's trade value may not be super high, making him an attractive option for the Marlins. Two top-30 prospects and the expiring contract of SS Joey Wendle could interest the Guardians.

Shane Bieber was about as good as it gets yesterday.#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/u438d9QjCg
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) June 30, 2023

Lucas Giolito, SP, Chicago White Sox

Adding starting pitching depth is never bad as the trade deadline approaches. The Chicago White Sox could be a potential trade partner for the Marlins, with Lucas Giolito being a viable option.

After a disappointing 2022 season, Giolito has bounced back with a 3.79 ERA and 131 strikeouts in 2023. Known for his ability to stay healthy and generate good results with his four-seam fastball, Giolito could significantly boost the Marlins' pitching staff.

With the White Sox potentially heading toward a rebuild and Giolito becoming a free agent after the season, the Marlins should consider pursuing him.

The Kansas City Royals' Scott Barlow and the St. Louis Cardinals' Jordan Hicks are among the mainstream options that could bolster the Marlins' bullpen. Barlow has been effective in inducing batters to chase pitches and making weak contact. Despite his 5.15 ERA, he has 12 saves and 45 strikeouts in 36 innings. Adding him to the Perez deal would be pretty simple and cost-effective two to three prospects and 1B Yuli Gurriel.

While Hicks possesses an impressive repertoire of pitches, including a sinker that averages over 100 mph, he carries a 1.55 WHIP. Still, his 3.67 ERA, 59 strikeouts, and eight saves in 11 opportunities are optimal for the Marlins. He could be obtained from the Cardinals for RP Dylan Floro and SS prospect Jordan Groshan.