Still on the Block

The lingering free agent saga of Manny Machado and Bryce Harper has been the ongoing story of this off-season. And ranking just a couple of notches lower is whether or where the Marlins plan to trade catcher J.T. Realmuto.

Just two seasons before reaching free agency, this winter is likely the best time for Miami to flip him for young players who'll be ready -- and cheap -- when the team hopes to contend around 2022. Thus, a steady stream of rumors that since November connected Realmuto to the Dodgers, Nationals and most recently, the Padres.

With three weeks before pitchers and catchers report to camp, no club wants a disruptive vibe of uncertainly surrounding their players. That goes for both for the Marlins, seeking a big haul of talent in return, but also prospective trade partners. And, come April, the realization that every game Realmuto plays shaves a bit off his value, as the clock keeps ticking towards the date of becoming a free agent.
(My image of Realmuto is from the Marlins/Mets game on August 30th, 2016.)

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