As Miami surges into the wild-card hunt, veterans like Taylor Ward and Michael Wacha emerge as pivotal targets to bolster the roster for a postseason push.
The MLB trade deadline is quickly approaching -- about a month and a half away -- and the Miami Marlins, who are in the wild-card picture, could become potential buyers.
Miami has cemented itself as one of the hottest teams in the league, boasting a 10-2 record in the past 12 games. Hitting its stride at the right time, this year's trade deadline could help the club build on its run.
Manager Clayton McCullough has until Aug. 3 at 6 p.m. to gauge the trade market and determine whether the Marlins are buyers, sellers or will stand pat. ESPN's Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan highlighted trade candidates who are fits for the Marlins.
Taylor Ward, LF, Baltimore Orioles
McDaniel and Passan penciled Ward to have a 75% chance of getting moved at the deadline. A significant reason behind his high percentage is his one-year, $12.18 million contract, which could help lower the cost of acquiring him.
The 32-year-old is batting .253 and has three home runs on the season, a massive decrease from his 36 last season. He offers above-average offensive production, and while his defensive value is diminishing, it isn't too bad for the Marlins to shy away from.
Michael Wacha, RHP, Kansas City Royals
Wacha is a true 50/50, as the Royals don't want to punt the season, but the right-hander has value across the league. He's a consistent pitcher that strengthens the bullpens, which is just as important as having a strong ace or No. 2 pitcher.
The 34-year-old will earn $14 million next season and has a club option for $14 million in 2028. His team-friendly contract and production could make him a valuable trade asset should Kansas City want to trade him.
Seth Lugo, RHP, Kansas City Royals
Lugo joins his teammate as a trade candidate for the Marlins, marked as a 65% chance of being traded. Like Wacha, Lugo is a consistent bullpen arm, making him a steady innings eater.
He will earn $21.5 million next season, a solid expiring contract. Miami could be in the market for pitchers, with Sandy Alcantara generating trade interest this season.
Christian Walker, 1B, Houston Astros
Walker is the first candidate on the list with a below 50% chance of being traded, at 45%. Passan highlighted that it's unclear how much the Astros want to deal away at the trade deadline, adding some uncertainty to Walker's status.
He will earn $20 million next season and is a consistent batter. The 35-year-old is batting .246 and has hit 18 home runs this season, with 52 RBI (tied for seventh with Liam Hicks).
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