The Miami Marlins traded second baseman Dee Gordon to the Seattle Mariners on Thursday.
Miami will receive minor-league prospects Nick Neidert, Chris Torres and Robert Dugger in return from Seattle and salary relief as well. Gordon is set to earn $38 million over the next three seasons, which was a high-number for Miami's new ownership. With the payroll expected to decline in 2018, the Marlins will be forced to make more trades.
Most reports in recent days have been centered around Giancarlo Stanton, but his no-trade clause has been an issue for the Marlins. While the team has reached reported trade agreements, Stanton has thus far not elected to waive his clause. Until Stanton waives the no-trade clause, Miami will have other decisions to make.
Gordon was an All-Star, Gold Glove winner and batting champion during his time with the Marlins. Sitting atop the lineup, the speedy second baseman was a catalyst for many rallies. Miami will have an issue replacing Gordon in the field, as well as in the lineup. Manager Don Mattingly will need to find a new leadoff hitter next season and a new threat on the base paths.
With Gordon's contract off the books, CEO Derek Jeter may have a better chance of retaining Marcell Ozuna's services. Ozuna will see a raise in arbitration, but he could fit into Miami's plans in 2018. Should Stanton remain in Miami, Ozuna's status would become a bigger question mark.
The MLB Winter Meetings will get underway next week and Miami could make more multiple moves at that time.
