Trading Austin Barnes 'stung' Miami Marlins

Dee Gordon is leading all of baseball with a .409 average and Dan Haren has posted a 3.38 ERA, but the Marlins will not forget what it took to acquire the infielder and starting pitching. In addition to parting with top pitching prospect Andrew Heaney, the Marlins traded Austin Barnes to Los Angeles, and according to ESPN's Mark Saxon, it was not easy for the Marlins to part with Barnes.

Dee Gordon leads the majors in hitting (.409), Dan Haren has a solid 3.38 ERA, but couple things to remember about that Marlins trade..(1/2)

— Mark Saxon (@markasaxon) April 30, 2015

(2/2) Kendrick in L.A. because of it. + heard today Marlins people have said losing Austin Barnes stung most, has a .370 OBP at AAA

— Mark Saxon (@markasaxon) April 30, 2015

Barnes, 25, gave the Marlins additional infield depth, which is notable because of the club's catching situation. Jarrod Saltalamacchia could be dealt soon, with J.T. Realmuto starting for Miami. While Barnes could establish himself as a consistent major league infielder, the Marlins' reaction to the deal is notable. If he was still with the club, he could have been called upon in 2015.

Los Angeles has enjoyed having Barnes as an option in Triple-A, and Barnes has continued to have success. He has posted a .292/.370/.375 batting line in 14 games and drove in 43 runs last season. Barnes saw time with Double-A Jacksonville in his time with the Marlins after a slow 2013 campaign with High-A Jupiter. He has a notable amount of power and could thrive in the middle of a major league lineup.

Before Barnes was dealt, Realmuto was still regarded as the more reliable starting option. Given the club's current catching situation, the Marlins' reaction to the deal may be justified. The Marlins received a starting second baseman and pitcher in exchange, and if Realmuto thrives, the organization may not be concerned with losing Barnes.