According to reports from the Miami Herald, the Miami Marlins are monitoring the market for catching help as the trade deadline approaches. The team is currently in a Wild Card spot and just 3.5 games back of the division-leading Braves, positioning them as potential buyers heading into the deadline.
However, even if the Marlins become sellers, finding long-term help at the catcher position is a priority. Ever since J.T. Realmuto was traded, the team has struggled to find a consistent option behind the plate. Jacob Stallings, acquired from the Pirates, has underperformed both offensively and defensively since joining the Marlins. Stallings' offensive production has hit career-worst levels, and his defensive ratings have been below expectations.
As a result, Stallings has started to lose playing time to 26-year-old Nick Fortes. While Fortes is not an offensive force, he has outperformed Stallings at the plate this season and has received better grades for his pitch blocking and framing. Both catchers have struggled to control the running game, allowing a high number of stolen bases.
Unfortunately for the Marlins, the catching market appears to be thin this summer. While veteran rentals like Yasmani Grandal and Tucker Barnhart could become available, neither is considered a major difference-maker. Other potential options could emerge as clubs evaluate their top prospects, such as Bo Naylor of the Cleveland Guardians or the Pittsburgh Pirates' Endy Rodriguez and Henry Davis. However, these options may not provide a significant offensive upgrade for the Marlins.
Overall, the Marlins, along with other teams in need of catching help, will have to get creative in addressing their needs, considering the limited options available in the market.
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