Stanton to help Marlins recruit free agents to Miami
After signing slugger to record deal, club is seeking additional players
MIAMI -- Not only is Giancarlo Stanton a two-time All-Star, a National League home run champion and a Silver Slugger Award winner, but the Marlins intend on using the new face of their franchise as a recruiter for potential free agents.
The organization has pledged to build around its 25-year-old sensation, who signed a record-setting 13-year, $325 million contract on Wednesday. The slugger may also get involved in talking the organization up to those interested in relocating to South Florida.
General manager Dan Jennings made it clear that Stanton will be part of the recruiting process.
"One-hundred percent," Jennings said. "And we would reach out to him to make that call to help. Absolutely."
It's not uncommon for star players to help sway others to join their clubs. David Wright was part of the Mets' efforts to sign Michael Cuddyer, who finalized a two-year deal with New York last week.
The Marlins are hopeful free agents will be lured to South Florida, knowing they can join one of the young faces of the game.
The main reason Stanton agreed to his deal to extend his stay in Miami is he has bought into the organization's vision to improve the club. President of baseball operations Michael Hill and Jennings are now in the process of trying to bring in more All-Star-caliber players.
Video: Marlins discuss Stanton's record-setting contract
"That's our job," Hill said. "Our job got easier, knowing that Giancarlo is in the middle of our lineup. He's a tremendous talent, and we all acknowledge what he does offensively, defensively and his presence in our clubhouse. [As well as] what he means to this community."
The Marlins are exploring the market for a front-line starting pitcher and a power bat to hit behind Stanton. Right-hander James Shields and first baseman Adam LaRoche have been linked to the club. Signing one or both of the free agents would help move Miami closer to contention. The team also is open to trading top prospects for players who could help the club win in 2015.
"Knowing we have the big man in the middle moving forward is a huge thing for us," Hill said.
Hill added that Miami should be a desirable franchise for any player, regardless of who is currently on the roster.
"I think this should always be an attractive destination, because we have talent," Hill said. "This is a good team. You look at what we already have in-house and the core. Now it's the job of [Jennings] and I to finish it off, and to find the pieces that will help get us to the next level. That's our goal. We made a nice step in 2014, but we're nowhere close to where we want to be. And no one is going to be happy until we're playing in October and we're sizing ourselves for another one of these [World Series] rings. That's the goal."