MIAMI -- The Marlins continue to explore trade possibilities for closer AJ Ramos and right-hander Dan Straily. The club is also open to dealing backup catcher A.J. Ellis, with the Cubs being a possibility.
The non-waiver Trade Deadline is at 4 p.m. ET Monday, and Miami is expected to be active as the organization is primed to rebuild toward the future.
Ramos, an All-Star closer in 2016, is attracting interest from about a handful of teams. The reliever market has been active, and a number of teams continue to check in on Ramos.
But the feeling in the industry is the 30-year-old is viewed as a setup option, not a closer. Ramos has been closing for Miami since 2015, and he picked up his 20th save on Thursday, working 1 1/3 innings in a 4-1 win over the Reds.
A number of teams are still deciding if they will become sellers. Ramos appears to be in a similar situation as Addison Reed of the Mets, another right-hander who can close.
Ramos is making $6.55 million, and he is arbitration-eligible in 2018 before qualifying for free agency in '19.
On Thursday, it was revealed the Marlins are open to possibly dealing Straily. The right-hander has three-plus years of control, and he's making $552,100 this year and is eligible for arbitration in 2018.
There's a small list of high-end starting pitchers with controllable years. Sonny Gray of the A's is the most sought-after condidate. More clarity on whether Straily is moved could come if Gray is dealt.
Ellis, 36, is a veteran catcher who could be a fit with the Cubs, who are pursuing an experienced backup. Making $2.5 million, Ellis will be a free agent after the season.