Joe Capozzi explores the question.
When the Marlins went into the All Star break 2 games over .500 and 4 games out of first place, the front office declared the team a playoff contender and "buyer" going into the July 31 trading deadline.
But after losing three games to the Phillies, that may have changed. The Marlins are now 7 back and a game under .500. My guess is that right now, the Marlins are still "buyers". But if they lose both series in San Diego and Los Angeles, that could change.
I'm taking the middle ground on this one, I think the Marlins will just stand pat, no matter the outcome of the West Coast trip. I really don't think the Marlins were all that serious of a buyer to begin with and I also don't see them trading the likes of Uggla or Hermida until after the season. Sure, you may be able to get more for them now, but that is not a guarantee. If they are thinking about buying they would have to trade a prospect or two and why would you want to do that when the starting pitching, you know the one element you are counting on to get you to the playoffs, is performing so inconsistently? Of course, the right deal may come along.
My feeling is that the Marlins will just go with what they've got. But Joe could be right.