Miami Marlins trade rumors: Marcell Ozuna deal possible following Jennings firing

Marcell Ozuna might not be a Miami Marlin for much longer. Miami's front office has reportedly been divided with regard to whether or not to move Ozuna, and according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald, Owner Jeffrey Loria had issues while Dan Jennings managed.

Jackson points out Loria questioned whether to play Ozuna and where he should be placed in the outfield. Now that Jennings has been dismissed, the Marlins could move Ozuna if they feel that is the best thing to do.

Ozuna, 24, struggled consistently throughout the first half of 2015. He ended the year with a .259/.308/.383 line to complement 10 home runs and 44 RBIs over 123 games with the Marlins.

After Ozuna had difficulty producing to open the year, the Marlins opted to option to him to Triple-A. He batted .317 over 33 contests in New Orleans, however did not respond positively to the demotion. Ozuna compared playing in Triple-A to being let out of jail and ultimately did not return to Miami until August 15.

Miami was hoping to extend Marcell Ozuna before the start of last season, however he is represented by Scott Boras and turned down the Marlins' extension proposal. Boras has a tendency to encourage his clients to receive the largest possible contract through free agency. Ozuna's decision might have cost him a job with the Marlins.

The Marlins are hoping to add controllable starting pitching this winter, and moving Ozuna might result in the acquisition of at least one quality arm. If the Marlins opted to trade Ozuna, they would need to add an outfielder this off-season. However, that is not necessarily something the club would be opposed to doing.

If Jennings was fond of Ozuna while Loria was not, the Marlins now have the freedom to make whatever move they want with Jennings no longer in the picture. Ozuna could thrive in 2016. But it might not be with the Marlins.