If Miami Marlins fans were hoping that new ownership would be a bit more free-spending, they will, at least for now, be disappointed.
According to Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald, the Derek Jeter and Bruce Sherman-led Marlins ownership group has proposed cutting the team’s payroll from $115 million to about $90 million in 2018.
With reports indicating that the team lost $50 million last season, due in part to low attendances and a league-worst television deal, ownership wants to break even, and significant payroll cuts will be necessary. With several players due raises, the payroll in 2018 would likely approach $140 million if untouched, meaning a number of players could be on the move.
Outfielder Giancarlo Stanton is the obvious choice, but other young players such as outfielders Christian Yelich and Marcell Ozuna could be floated as trade candidates.
Stanton’s name will come up quite frequently in trade rumors, and given the signals he’s sent about a rebuilding process, he is probably the likeliest Marlin to get moved before next season begins.
