The Miami Marlins traded Michael Morse and Mat Latos as part of a three-team deal for a trio of minor-league pitchers on Thursday.
The three players coming back to Miami are Jeff Brigham, Victor Araujo and Kevin Guzman. The Los Angeles Dodgers will get both Morse and Latos. The Atlanta Braves will also send Alex Wood, Bronson Arroyo, Luis Avilan, Jim Johnson and Jose Peraza to Los Angeles. Going to the Braves will be Hector Olivera, Paco Rodriguez and Zack Bird.
The Marlins also included their competitive balance draft pick in the deal. This pick could have helped a depleted farm system in the organization, but its inclusion was likely necessary due to Los Angeles taking on a lot of salary. That pick will end up with the Braves as part of the three-team deal.
When Miami signed Morse to a two-year contract last off-season, it had high hopes of him protecting Giancarlo Stanton in the lineup. Things did not go according to plan however as Morse struggled mightily. An injury and a lack of production led to Morse losing his starting job. In recent days, the veteran has found himself glued to the bench.
Justin Bour broke out onto the major league scene with quick success and much-needed power. Bour also provided the Marlins with a lefty bat in the middle of the lineup which was desperately needed. The Marlins briefly tried Morse in the outfield, but quickly abandoned that idea due to lackluster fielding.
Latos started the year in a rough way and then battled multiple injuries along the way. The right-hander has sprinkled in some good starts, but his value was likely damaged for good with his production early in the season. As an impending free-agent, Miami moved Latos while it could still get something in return for him.
Miami could still look to move more veterans such Dan Haren and Martin Prado before Friday's trade deadline.
