Miami Marlins' Mat Latos among top five players likely to be dealt

Mat Latos has pitched notably well since being reinstated from the disabled list and the rest of the league is taking notice. Latos' name has been mentioned in trade rumors over the last few months and MLB.com's Dan O'Dowd lists Latos as one of five players likely to be dealt before the end of the month.

Although he has struggled at some points in 2015, Latos has been consistent in his last few outings. He allowed one run over seven innings in his last start against the Cubs and has tossed at least six innings in four of his last five outings. Latos has posted a 4.90 ERA and 3.50 FIP over 75.1 innings with the Marlins this season but could be a valuable addition to the middle of a contending club's rotation.

When the Marlins acquired him from the Reds, they were hoping Latos would prove to be a productive second starter behind Henderson Alvarez. After Alvarez was placed on the disabled list, Latos became a primary top of the rotation arm and since proving he is healthy has had success. With Jose Fernandez back and seemingly healthy, the Marlins have a surplus of starting pitching. While Brad Hand, Dan Haren, and Tom Koehler might also draw a notable amount of interest, Latos could be the most affordable.

Latos is set to become a free agent at the end of the season and as a result would likely be a rental for a contending team. In a potential deal, the Marlins may ask for prospects in return. Anthony DeSclafani and Chad Wallach were sent to Cincinnati in the deal and Miami could be in pursuit of outfield and relief depth.

Any team interested in Latos will likely question his health, however after already spending time on the 15-day disabled list, Latos does not appear to have any issues. The Dodgers, Cubs, Twins, Tigers, and Blue Jays are all clubs O'Dowd believes will be interested in Latos since they seeking starting pitching. Latos has not made his intentions beyond 2015 clear but he likely will be interested in signing a multiyear deal this winter.

Miami has a notable amount of depth and will likely be active over the next few weeks. Latos should draw a significant amount of interest and could be dealt if the deal is right for both sides.