Miami Marlins trade rumors: Club 'growing more confident' it will deal Mat Latos

As the trade deadline inches closer, the Marlins are expected to become active. The organization met today to discuss its strategy, according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald, and both Mat Latos and Marcell Ozuna continue to draw a notable amount of interest.

Mat Latos

Latos, 27, has posted a 4.48 ERA and 3.34 FIP over 88.1 innings and 16 starts. Since he is an impending free agent, the Marlins are expected to move Latos before the deadline. According to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, the market for Latos is "coming in to focus."

Also, the #Marlins are growing more confident they'll trade Mat Latos. His market is "coming into focus,'' source says.

— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 28, 2015

Scott Kazmir and Johnny Cueto were the first two big name starters to be dealt and Cole Hamels might be traded over the next day or two. However, the Marlins have reportedly been open about Latos' status and are now hoping to move him quickly. Latos' status as a rental player could result in a limited return but Latos is not expected to remain in Miami long term.

Marcell Ozuna

Ozuna, 24, has had his name consistently mentioned in trade rumors likely because he is currently in Triple-A. He batted 249/.301/.337 with four home runs and 26 RBIs through 79 contests before Miami optioned him to New Orleans. Since being demoted, Ozuna is batting .344/.382/.641 with four home runs and eight RBIs through 18 games.

Although the Marlins are not currently shopping Ozuna, according to Clark Spencer of The Miami Herald, there are several teams interested.

While #Marlins aren't shopping Marcell Ozuna, numerous teams asking about him, including Indians.

— clarkspencer (@clarkspencer) July 28, 2015

Spencer adds the Marlins have been scouting Cleveland's starting pitchers and it would take a lot for the Marlins to move him. Miami believes Ozuna, who turned down a contract extension offer during spring training, can be a productive center fielder moving forward. As a result, a deal might not be likely.