Marlins trade rumors: Hechavarria deal remains an option

While Adeiny Hechavarria has proven to be valuable defensively, the Marlins could consider other options at shortstop this off-season, according to FanRag Sports’ Jon Heyman.

Miami’s approach with regard to its shortstop is significant, since the club appeared interested in extending Hechavarria after a successful 2015 campaign. Last season, the Marlins’ shortstop batted .281/.315/.374 with five home runs and 48 RBIs.

The Marlins offense had success early in the year, but Manager Don Mattingly still often opted to have Hechavarria bat eighth. He’s struggled this season, batting .240/.288/.317 with three home runs and 34 RBIs.

Since the Marlins don’t have many internal options to turn to, Hechavarria might be given another opportunity to produce next season. However, Miguel Rojas, who played under Mattingly in Los Angeles, is another option for Miami.

Rojas, though, is a versatile piece, so restricting him to shortstop might limit the team’s depth. Rojas is batting .254/.290/.331 with a home run and 14 RBIs over 106 games this season.

Hechavarria is scheduled to become a free agent in 2019, with Rojas eligible for free agency in 2021.

When Giancarlo Stanton, Christian Yelich and Marcell Ozuna are healthy, Miami’s offense produces consistently. But entering 2017, Martin Prado’s status is unclear, although the Marlins almost certainly will have interest in re-signing him.

Miami’s lineup could look different next season, and as a result, the Marlins will need a productive shortstop. While Hechavarria is valuable defensively, the club could consider moving him for starting pitching this off-season and exploring other options.