Edinson Volquez signing bodes well for Marcell Ozuna

It’s no secret the Marlins are seeking another starter after signing Edinson Volquez to a two-year, $22 million deal. But it’s not just the club’s starting rotation that might benefit from the Volquez signing.

Outfielder Marcell Ozuna has been mentioned in trade rumors since June and it seemed possible the Marlins would consider moving Ozuna in exchange for starting pitching this winter. However, that now might be less likely.

Though Volquez will likely pitch behind Wei-Yin Chen and Adam Conley in Miami’s rotation, the club’s staff now features four starters. The Marlins can still consider internal options, such as Justin Nicolino or Jose Urena, but are also considering Jon Niese, C.J. Wilson, Jason Hammel, Doug Fister and Daniel Hudson.

If the Marlins do move Ozuna, it would likely be for a top and controllable starting pitcher. He is still arbitration eligible and had a fairly successful 2016 season, batting .266/.321/.452 with 23 home runs and 76 RBIs over 148 games.

Miami’s outfield will be most effective with Ozuna, who with Giancarlo Stanton and Christian Yelich makeup what the Marlins believe to be the best outfield in baseball.

Until the market for outfielders is established, it’s unlikely Ozuna is mentioned in trade rumors. Still, he could draw interest from teams seeking inexpensive outfield options.

It’s unlikely the Marlins move Ozuna for starting pitching because they would then need to add an outfielder. However, if a team is willing to overpay, there is a chance Ozuna gets moved this winter.