What to Know
- The cut in payroll is reminiscent of moved made under previous ownership – including gutting the roster after World Series wins.
Amid the latest fire sale of talent from the Miami Marlins that fans have become all too accustomed with, the team’s new ownership will speak with hundreds of season ticket holders at a Tuesday town hall meeting.
CEO Derek Jeter, who purchased the team just months ago but has already drawn some criticism for the drastic payroll purge, will meet with around 200 people inside Marlins Park starting at 6 p.m. Team officials say Jeter will here concerns and answer their questions – many of which are expected to be about the recent moves.
Within the last two weeks, the Marlins have sent three of their best players packing for a variety of players and prospects – all in an effort to cut the team’s massive payroll as part of a rebuilding effort stated when the legendary MLB shortstop bought the team.
Most notably, Miami traded the reigning National League MVP, outfielder Giancarlo Stanton, to Jeter’s former team – the New York Yankees – for second baseman Starlin Castro and two prospects. The move came after the team traded second baseman Dee Gordon to the Seattle Mariners and before outfielder Marcelle Ozuna was moved to the St. Louis Cardinals.
The cut in payroll is reminiscent of moved the Marlins have made under previous ownership – including gutting the roster of big name talent shortly after winning the 1997 World Series and in the years following their 2013 championship.
Miami finished with a 77-85 record last season, their eight straight losing season, with Stanton becoming the first Marlin to ever be named the top player in the National League. They will open the 2018 season on March 29th at home when they host the Chicago Cubs.
