As a career season turns the prolific catcher into a prime trade chip, Liam Hicks confronts the reality of being moved while the Miami Marlins weigh a high-value return.
MIAMI, Fla. – The MLB trade deadline is three days away – Aug. 3 at 6 p.m. ET is the cutoff.
Usually, around this time of year, the Miami Marlins gauge the roster. Instead, President Peter Bendix is looking to keep it intact. However, the business of baseball doesn’t slow down for anybody.
According to The Athletic, the Marlins will dangle prolific names around the market, including catcher Liam Hicks. The second-year major leaguer is on pace to have a career season. He’s batting .283 with a .799 OPS, including 97 hits in 343 at-bats, nine doubles, a triple, 60 runs batted in (leads the team), and 14 home runs in 98 games.
Given the lack of catchers on the trade market, Hicks could command a significant return. The 27-year-old has another year of pre-arbitration and is under team control until 2030. Hicks’ versatility allows him to play first base and designated hitter.
In an interview with Tyler Boronski posted on Thursday, the Canadian native shared some thoughts about the possibility of being moved.
“That’s completely out of my control,” he said. “Trying not to think about it at all and focus on helping the team win.”
Hicks mentioned the Marlins don’t communicate the full transparency behind the business. Despite all the rumors and up-in-the-air status, he has familiarity with the situation.
Coming from Arkansas State, Hicks was selected in the ninth round of the 2021 MLB Draft (No. 254) by the Texas Rangers. He signed a contract and stayed with the organization for a couple of more years. However, ahead of the 2024 trade deadline, Hicks was dealt to the Detroit Tigers, along with Tyler Owens, in exchange for Carson Kelly, who is currently with the Chicago Cubs.
A few months later, the Marlins took Hicks in the Rule 5 Draft and developed him into one of the league’s top offensive catchers.
“[This organization] gave me my first chance in the big leagues,” he added. “It would be really sad to leave. I really appreciate all the opportunities they’ve given me. I took advantage of them. It’s definitely a place I love and feels like family.”
The Marlins currently carry three catchers on the roster – Hicks, Joe Mack, and Brian Navarreto, who was called up in late June. Also, Agustin Ramirez is still with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp – Triple-A league. He was sent down in early May and is still waiting for an opportunity.
However, Ramirez has struggled behind the plate; meanwhile, Mack and Navarreto provide more stability.
Hicks could help the Marlins acquire a third baseman or relief pitcher at the deadline – both listed as roster needs. The amount of assets other organizations are willing to part with remains the big question.
In any conversations, the Marlins would have leverage. Hicks’ future in South Florida is uncertain, but soon to be answered.
