Inbox: Is it Dodgers or bust for Stanton?

Beat reporter Joe Frisaro answers questions from Marlins fans

November 28th, 2017

Probably getting millions of questions on , but if he does hold out for the Dodgers, and they don't want him until next year when they free up payroll, do you see Derek Jeter and Michael Hill changing course? Would they try one more year (or until the Trade Deadline) to win with this team? -- @FrankyRitzz11
Stanton is preoccupying much of the offseason buzz, and Jeter and Hill both said at the General Managers Meetings a few weeks ago in Orlando, Fla., that the club hasn't stated it is trading the National League's Most Valuable Player Award winner. There also isn't a timetable to make a move. I do expect Stanton to be traded, perhaps around or during the Winter Meetings (Dec. 10-14). There seems to be enough conversation to get something done.
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As for the Dodgers, specifically, I'm not sure Stanton is giving the Marlins an ultimatum to deal him there. If Stanton feels the opportunity is right with, say, the Giants or Cardinals, I could see him going to either of those clubs.
Now, the Dodgers would be better positioned in terms of the competitive balance (or luxury tax) next offseason. It jumps from $197 million in 2018 to $206 million in '19. But I find it risky to wait. There could be an injury or decline in production, which could limit Stanton's market even more a year from now.
Knowing Stanton, I can't see him being in Miami if he sensed he was not wanted.

Who is the one free agent you would like to see the Marlins go after?
-- @Adam_Weiner

I'd like to see the Marlins go after more South Florida natives. They know the market and would be immediate fan favorites. Someone like , who already has a World Series title, could get his big contract and help build something in Miami.

Are the Marlins interested in Kevin Maitan? Also, could you see the Marlins going after a pitcher like Colorado's , a low-gamble, high-ceiling pitcher who could be pretty good out of Coors Field? -- @jmb9299
Maitan would be interesting, because he is a free agent after MLB's ruling on the Braves' international signing penalties. The Marlins are looking to increase their resources internationally, so I do expect more activity in that department.
Chatwood could make sense. The right-hander has dealt with injuries, but per Statcast™, his average fastball velocity was 94.84 mph this year, above the MLB average of 93.19 mph. Not sure that Chatwood is on the radar, but that could be a good name to follow this offseason.

Since FOX Sports Florida has gotten rid of its broadcast team and the Marlins are likely going to trade two fan favorites -- Stanton and Dee Gordon -- why should I even bother tuning in next year? Serious question. What good things will this team have anymore? -- @congunners
The day Bruce Sherman and Jeter were introduced as the new owners, they asked for patience. They also noted some unpopular moves would be made. Rich Waltz is a friend and a terrific broadcaster. He understands the nature of the industry, and he is moving forward and will be just fine. Whenever there is a change in ownership, there is the possibility of sweeping personnel moves. As unpopular as some have been, the fact remains that the Marlins went 77-85 last year, and they haven't had a winning season since 2009.
From everything I've heard, there is a lot of optimism internally on the plan being put in place. Ultimately, we'll judge how the team is built and what the long-term vision is. If the club is entertaining and shows promise, this could be an exciting transition period.
Think the Marlins try to get as a quality starting pitcher, or will they settle for a back-of-the-rotation starter for Opening Day? -- @jonandersenn
Lynn, who will turn 31 in May, promises to be one of the most sought-after free-agent pitchers on the market. The right-hander made $7.5 million in 2017. Could he be a fit for the Marlins? A year ago, this would have made more sense, because Miami was committed to its core and looking for top-of-the-rotation candidates. If the Marlins' objective is to seriously contend in '18, then Lynn would be a viable option. But since it appears the club is committed to redirecting, I don't see a fit. Lynn's preference would seem to be going to a team ready to contend now.