The Miami Marlins traded outfielder Marcell Ozuna to the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday, according to a report by MLB.com.
The return from St. Louis is not known as of yet, but it is expected to include multiple top prospects. Ozuna is an all-star with two years of control and drew heavy interest from other clubs. For the rebuilding Marlins, this is a deal that could pay dividends.
Ozuna was a fan favorite during his time with the Marlins and posted a big season in 2017. With winning seasons likely years away in Miami, the team opted to move Ozuna elsewhere for prospects. Ozuna figures to become the main offensive force with the Cardinals right away.
Ozuna's trade follows just days after Miami sent Giancarlo Stanton to the New York Yankees. What was once arguably the best outfield in baseball, is now down to just Christian Yelich. The team may prefer to keep Yelich in town, but he could have other ideas. Stanton did not want to be part of a rebuilding club and Yelich could have similar wishes.
Following this trade, Miami can turn attention to dealing other players. One name that has been reportedly drawing interest of his own is Dan Straily. The veteran pitcher can be a big member of a rotation for a contending club, something that the Marlins can no longer offer. Straily could bring a couple of more prospects to Miami's organization.
The MLB Winter Meetings will wrap up on Thursday, but more deals should be expected in the coming days and weeks.
