MLB trade rumors: Marlins could deal Jose Fernandez this winter

Joe Rodgers

MLB trade rumors: Marlins could deal Jose Fernandez this winter image

Throughout the offseason, we will be following all the latest Hot Stove League news and rumors.

THE RUMOR: Many around MLB think the Marlins will deal All-Star starter Jose Fernandez this offseason.

REPORTED BY: Sirius XM's Craig Mish

MORE: Top 25 free agents this offseason

THE DETAILS: Marlins president David Samson said earlier this month that Fernandez rejected a long-term contract, which is nothing new for young Scott Boras clients as Fernandez becomes arbitration-eligible in 2016. But Boras may be influencing the Marlins in a much larger capacity.  

LAST SEASON: With the start of his season delayed as he recovered from Tommy John surgery, Fernandez only made 11 starts in 2015, registering a 6-1 record with a 2.92 ERA. But the 23-year-old right-hander owns 2.40 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 336:85 K:BB ratio across 289 major league innings to begin his career. 

OUR TAKE: It would be a blockbuster trade if the Marlins do decide to deal the 2013 NL Rookie of the Year, who is an incredible 17-0 with a 1.40 ERA at Marlins Park in his career. The Fish paid Fernandez $651,000 this season but due to arbitration, the number would likely jump four-fold in 2016. Boras is likely behind the rumors and he and Marlins officials clashed this past season over Fernandez's innings and another of his clients, outfielder Marcell Ozuna, being sent to the minors.

The Marlins had a disappointing 2015 but are still considered a young and talented team that is capable of competing for a wild-card spot next season with a revamped front office and manager Don Mattingly calling the shots. Should the Marlins embark on the trade, the Red Sox, Yankees, Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Tigers and Cubs would all be interested in adding a young, talented arm. However, with Fernandez only expected to pitch 160-180 innings next season, teams that want to contend in 2016 may be hesitant to engage in a deal.  

 

 

Joe Rodgers