Sources: Nats interested in Realmuto, Yelich

January 4th, 2018

MIAMI -- Marlins catcher J.T. Realmuto and outfielder are no strangers to the division-rival Nationals. So with Miami listening on potential trade offers for both, it's not surprising that Washington would be on the list.
According to multiple sources, the Nationals are interested in Realmuto and Yelich, either individually or perhaps together in what would be a mega package.
Nothing is considered imminent regarding any trade scenarios involving Yelich or Realmuto, who are drawing attention from more than a dozen teams.

At the Winter Meetings in December, the Nationals were told Realmuto was not available. Since then, the Marlins are open to at least discussing the possibility of moving their two most coveted players.
Both are affordable and under club control for several more seasons. The two have also expressed that they may not be comfortable being part of a reset in Miami, which has had eight straight losing seasons.

Yelich is signed through 2021 with $43.25 million remaining on his deal. There also is a club option for $15 million in '22. Realmuto is entering his first season of arbitration and is eligible for free agency in '21.
The market is considered slightly larger for Yelich because more teams are seeking outfielders than catchers. At least 15 teams have touched base with Miami on Yelich, and about a dozen on Realmuto.
To move either player, the Marlins are seeking an "overpay" in terms of prospects. Each could command three top prospects, plus a big league-ready player.
Washington isn't the only National League East club interested in the two Marlins standouts. The Braves have checked in on both, and it's no secret the Phillies covet Yelich.

A potential trade with the Nationals for Realmuto or Yelich could center around outfielder , ranked No. 3 on the MLB Pipeline Top 100 list.
Atlanta's top prospect Ronald Acuna, an outfielder rated No. 6 on the Top 100 list, would be a focus for Miami for either Yelich or Realmuto.
From the Phillies, the Marlins would have interest in first baseman/outfielder , who belted 18 home runs in 50 games as a rookie.
The Marlins are in the market for right-handed power after dealing to the Yankees and to the Cardinals.
To the Nationals, Yelich would provide another middle-of-the-order presence for several more seasons. After 2018, the Nationals face the possibility of losing former National League MVP Award winner through free agency.
The Marlins have no urgency to deal Yelich or Realmuto, but talks are expected to pick up next week as teams get closer to setting their rosters for Spring Training.