Marlins are not planning to deal Stanton
The Marlins have no intention to trade their All-Star right fielder. According to a source, the slugger pretty much remains untouchable, at least for 2013.
Miami has Stanton under club control for one more season before he is eligible for arbitration, and he won't have the necessary service time to become a free agent until after the 2016 season.
Currently, the Marlins are not in discussions with Stanton's representatives regarding a long-term contract.
Despite being limited by injuries to 123 games, Stanton finished second in the National League in home runs with 37. He's belted 93 home runs in 373 games since being called up in June 2010.
The Marlins are finalizing a blockbuster deal that will send Josh Johnson, Mark Buehrle, Jose Reyes, Emilio Bonifacio and John Buck to the Blue Jays. In return, the Marlins will receive Yunel Escobar, Adeiny Hechavarria, Henderson Alvarez, Jeff Mathis and prospects Justin Nicolino, Jake Marisnick and Anthony DeSclafani.
Stanton, who turned 23 last Thursday, expressed his frustration via Twitter on Tuesday after learning of Miami's pending trade with Toronto.
"Alright, I'm [ticked] off!!! Plain & Simple," Stanton tweeted.
Tuesday's trade removes about $160 million of base salary commitments off Miami's books.
Although the trade is unpopular in South Florida, the Marlins are restructuring and are hopeful they've added pieces for a better future. Also, they've created payroll flexibility.
Stanton's role with the organization magnifies now as he has become the face of the franchise.