Miami Marlins rumors: Dee Gordon seeking seven-year deal

Miami wants Dee Gordon to remain a member of the club's core in the future, but the organization might have to alter its extension offer in order to make that realistic.

The Marlins have offered Gordon a five-year deal, according to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, but Gordon is hoping to receive a deal that covers at least seven seasons.

The Marlins, according to sources, have offered a five-year deal, with Gordon seeking a deal of seven years. While things are said to be moving slowly, at least they are moving.

Extension talks started before the start of the annual Winter Meetings in Nashville, and the Marlins met with Gordon's agent during the meetings. While it appears the Marlins are optimistic a deal will get done, a more extensive contract might have to be provided.

Miami acquired Gordon from the Dodgers last off-season and he immediately became a part of its core at second base. Over 145 games, Gordon batted .333/.359/.418 to complement four home runs and 46 RBIs. He also stole 58 bases, more than the Marlins stole as a team in 2014.

After moving Dan Uggla and Omar Infante, the Marlins have not had depth at second base. Derek Dietrich and Donovan Solano have received starting time as the Marlins' starting second baseman, but neither appeared to be a long-term option.

Gordon quickly filled a pair of needs for the Marlins, not only serving as the club's starting second baseman, but also batting in the lead off spot. Before Gordon was acquired, Christian Yelich was Miami's lead off hitter. While Yelich had success leading off, most expect him to become an efficient two or three hitter in the Marlins' lineup.

Despite the two year difference in what the Marlins offered and what Gordon is hoping to receive, a deal should ultimately get done. While the Marlins are sometimes hesitant to sign pitchers to extensive deals, the organization is not afraid of signing position players to long-term contracts. Both Hanley Ramirez and Giancarlo Stanton received large deals, and Gordon could be next.

It does not appear there is a timetable for a deal to get done. Gordon, a Silver Slugger and Gold Glove winner in 2015, could report to spring training without a new contract. But even if he does, the Marlins have an apparent desire to get the extension done heading into 2016.