The Miami Marlins bolstered their outfield on Monday by acquiring Starling Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks received left-handed pitcher Caleb Smith, right-handed pitcher Humberto Mejia, and a player to be named later in return. At age 31, Marte will be a free agent at the end of this year.
Marlins are close to acquiring Outfielder Starling Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks per sources.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) August 31, 2020
Marlins Boost Offense With Marte Addition
This acquisition solidifies the Marlins’ push to make the postseason for the first time since 2003. Marte has been productive in his first season with Arizona, posting a .311/.384/.443 batting line with two homers and 14 RBI. He is coming off arguably the best season of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Marte will improve the struggling Miami offense that has posted the third-worst OPS in the National League this year. Miami currently sits in sixth place, with a record of 15-15 in the expanded NL postseason picture.
The Marlins reportedly shipped Jonathan Villar to the Toronto Blue Jays on a busy trade deadline day for the team. While Miami’s return is currently unknown, this series of transactions emphasizes the team’s priority to upgrade its relatively weak outfield.
Miami has been surprisingly strong this season, and Marte will slot nicely into the middle of their order. Bringing in a veteran like this should benefit the young team and signify its urgency to win now.
Return for Arizona
Arizona, on the other hand, looks to be in total sell mode. They unloaded longtime starter Robbie Ray on Monday as well. Smith should be a serviceable replacement for the time being. The Diamondbacks are seven games below .500 and three games out of a playoff spot.
Caleb Smith, 29, has a good amount of major league experience but has never fully established himself as a full-time starter. Mejia, 23, has struggled in his first year in the big leagues. He has been impressive over the last few years in the minor leagues, with the potential to make an MLB rotation someday.
Arizona reportedly traded Archie Bradley on Monday as well. After a disappointing season, Arizona will be hoping that this fire-sale pays off in the near future.
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