Giancarlo Stanton rumors: Miami Marlins wouldn't seek prospects in trade

The Miami Marlins do not want to move Giancarlo Stanton.

MLB.com's Joe Frisaro reported on Wednesday the Marlins have no desire to trade Stanton, and even if extension talks stall, the organization plans to keep him in Miami until he is eligible to become a free agent.

Discussions pertaining to Stanton's contract status began last week when CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reported the Marlins' front office is not confident it can keep the star right fielder in Miami.

While noting the Marlins want to add a starting pitcher this offseason and build around both Stanton and Jose Fernandez, Frisaro was told if Miami was going to trade Stanton, the deal would involve major league-ready talent instead of top prospects.

And say, there is a huge trade opportunity out there, for the Marlins to even consider trading Stanton, it won’t be strictly a "prospects deal." You’re not going to see a repeat of the Miguel Cabrera trade. It’s not going to be Stanton for six prospects.

At the Trade Deadline this July, the Red Sox showed what the price of a rental could be when they dealt Jon Lester to the A’s for Yoenis Cespedes. Proven big league talent for big league talent.

The Marlins would not be looking for a package of prospects. It could include include top prospects, but it would require major pieces off another club’s big league roster.

Miami, following the departure of Larry Beinfest and promotion of new General Manager Dan Jennings, has made it clear the organization wants to win now and retain all parts of its current core, and Stanton is a significant part of that.

Almost every deal made before this year's non-waiver trade deadline included some form of major league talent, and considering the Marlins have improved coming off of a 100 loss season a year ago, trading for prospects would be a step backwards.

The Marlins entered rebuilding mode upon acquiring Justin Nicolino, Adeiny Hechavarria, and Jake Marisnick among others from Toronto. Miami no longer needs top prospects because Hechavarria, Christian Yelich, and Marcell Ozuna-type players have developed well.

The Dodgers are reportedly the favorite to land Stanton when or if he becomes a free agent, and while it was reported earlier in the week that the Red Sox have the depth necessary to get a trade done, Miami's desire for major league talent may change possible trade partners.

In a possible deal, Miami could look to add middle and corner infield depth, a catcher, and an arm or two.

The phrase "major league talent" is entirely subjective, considering a minor league player having a solid season for one Double or Triple-A squad could post better numbers than a starter for a major league team.

Miami does not want to trade Giancarlo Stanton. But if a deal does end up being made, the organization's desire for major league talent is indicative of the "win now" mindset of the front office.