Miami Marlins trade rumors: Jose Fernandez discussions with Dodgers ongoing

Jose Fernandez has been consistently mentioned in trade rumors since the start of the off-season, and it appears the Dodgers are actively pursuing Miami's ace. While a deal is not close, the Dodgers and Marlins have continued to discuss a trade involving Fernandez, according to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi.

Sources: #Dodgers, #Marlins remain in discussions about possible Jose Fernandez trade, but no deal close. @FOXSports

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 21, 2015

Throughout the Winter Meetings, the Dodgers were among the teams reportedly interested in Fernandez, and the club might now be in a position to make a deal. Los Angeles was involved in a seven player trade with the Reds and White Sox last Wednesday, acquiring outfielder Trayce Thompson, second baseman Micah Johnson and right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas. All three could intrigue the Marlins.

In Nashville, multiple reports indicated the Marlins were seeking five or six major league ready players in a deal that involved Fernandez. Of all the clubs known to have expressed some interest in Fernandez, the Dodgers might have the most depth. However, the Marlins likely would seek Corey Seager and Julio Urias in a trade. There is a chance Los Angeles does not want to move either of the two.

The expectation is there might be at least one team willing to overpay for Fernandez heading into spring training, and the Dodgers could very well end up being that team. Miami would be able to select a handful of top prospects if it decided to trade Fernandez, and the Dodgers would likely still have enough minor league pieces to keep their system strong moving forward.

Although the Marlins have consistently said they are not looking to move Fernandez, if they are able to get a team to overpay, a deal could become realistic. He is arbitration eligible for three more seasons, and his agent, Scott Boras, does not appear to be open to negotiating an extension with the Marlins. When recently asked about his future with the Marlins, Fernandez did not respond despite his consistent praise for the city of Miami and its fans.

While nothing is close, the Dodgers continue to be connected to Fernandez. The clubs might not be able to match up, but if they are, the deal will likely involve multiple top prospects.