Upcoming stretch key for Marlins' trade plans
MIAMI -- The Marlins are trying to finish off a tough first half on a positive note against the Reds this weekend, but they realize they have a lot of ground to make up to crawl into contention.
After the All-Star break, the team embarks on a 10-game road trip, which opens at Philadelphia on Friday. From there, they play three at Arizona and four at San Diego.
"These last games here and that 10-game road trip are huge for where we go beyond that point," manager Dan Jennings said. "Everyone knows that Trade Deadline is looming. Teams are always looking. You're either in it, on the bubble or you're out. We need to have a good run to get on the bubble."
The Marlins already are measuring possible deals as the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline approaches.
Based on their disappointing first half, the Marlins are open to dealing players not under club control for 2016. Mat Latos, scratched from a start on Saturday due to two bruised toes on his right foot, is a candidate to be moved. About four or five teams have expressed interest in Latos, and a number of scouts were in Miami on Saturday in hopes of seeing him.
Right-hander Dan Haren is another candidate to be dealt. Several clubs have expressed interest in reliever Steve Cishek and lefty Brad Hand, who is out of options. No deals are considered imminent, though.
While the Marlins are open to dealing players who may not be part of their plans for 2016, teams are inquiring about closer A.J. Ramos and hard-throwing right-hander Carter Capps, two pitchers Miami isn't open to moving.
Worth noting
• Jennings announced that Jose Fernandez will start the first game after the All-Star break on Friday against the Phillies. The rest of the rotation has yet to be set.
• The Marlins were considering reinstating third baseman Martin Prado -- on the disabled list with a right shoulder sprain since June 18 -- for Sunday's finale with the Reds, but are opting to bring him back after the All-Star break.
• Henderson Alvarez, on the DL with right shoulder inflammation, may begin throwing in rehab-assignment games as early as Sunday or Monday for Class A Jupiter.