The focal point of the General Managers Meetings has been the Miami Marlins and whether they will trade Giancarlo Stanton as part of their effort to trim payroll for the 2018 season. In addition to Stanton, it’s believed the Marlins are open to moving Dee Gordon.
Amid a relatively light free-agency class, Stanton immediately becomes the best player available. Naturally, the Marlins have been contacted by a slew of teams. The St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants are believed to be the frontrunners.
The Boston Red Sox are also said to have interest, though Stanton reportedly will not waive his no-trade clause to join the Cardinals or Red Sox.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, Stanton’s childhood team, were also mentioned as being involved in some capacity. According to Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times, there wasn’t much traction to their trade talks with the Marlins:
Sources: While Dodgers have made contact with Miami re: Giancarlo Stanton, there is little momentum to those talks. Could change, but for now, shrug emoji.
— Andy McCullough (@McCulloughTimes) November 15, 2017
Like other franchises, the Dodgers in particular are one that does their due diligence and explores all possible avenues to improve. Acquiring Stanton would further strengthen their lineup, but also add a significant amount in payroll.
The 28-year-old signed for a record 13 years and $325 million in November 2014. He has 10 years and nearly $300 million remaining on the deal. Stanton can opt out after the 2020 season, but it would entail walking away from a guaranteed $218 million.
Stanton’s trade value may never be higher, as he’s coming off an MVP-caliber season. Stanton hit .281/.376/.631 with 32 doubles, 59 home runs, 132 RBI and a 165 OPS+, leading the Majors in home runs and RBI.
It earned him a Hank Aaron Award as the top offensive player in the National League, a Silver Slugger, and at-worst a top-three finish in National League MVP voting.
