Marlins were ‘surprised’ with Adeiny Hechavarria extension request

Miami attempted to extend shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria, but the talks stalled because the Marlins were “surprised” by Hechavarria’s request, according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald.

FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal reported the Marlins are considering moving Hechavarria in a deal for starting pitching before the non-waiver trade deadline, which is notable since the Marlins don’t have much shortstop depth.

Rosenthal noted the Marlins don’t have a problem moving forward with Miguel Rojas playing shortstop, but the club doesn’t have many alternatives.

Hechavarria is expected to become a free agent after 2018, so if the Marlins are unable to re-sign him, a deal could be likely. However, Hechavarria is batting .245 and having his worst offensive year since 2013.

Rojas, who enters play Friday batting .263, isn’t much of an offensive upgrade over Hechavarria. Hechavarria has routinely been slotted in the eight spot, though, so the expectations for Rojas likely wouldn’t be unreasonably high.

The Marlins are seeking both a controllable starter and left-handed reliever, but the organization doesn’t have much minor league depth to move this summer. Miami has been linked to Jeremy Hellickson, Andrew Cashner, Sonny Gray, Matt Moore, Jake Odorizzi and Sonny Gray, among others.

For the Marlins to consider moving Hechavarria, a trade almost certainly would have to involve a top starter. Chris Archer could be an option, though Rosenthal reported the Rays aren’t interested in a package that included the Cuban shortstop.

Miami could attempt to extend Hechavarria again this off-season, and if his demands remain unreasonable by the club’s standards, he could be traded for pitching.

If he produces consistently, Rojas could be a long-term option, since he won’t be a free agent until 2021.