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Marlon Byrd rumors: Phillies, Mariners trade talk stalls

Jul 6, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Marlon Byrd (3) hits an RBI single against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 6, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Marlon Byrd (3) hits an RBI single against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Seattle Mariners are one of the few teams on Marlon Byrd’s limited no-trade clause, but that hasn’t stopped the American League team from attempting to acquire the veteran slugger. There’s no word on if Byrd would actually accept a deal if one was to be completed, however we may never know the answer as trade talks have stalled.

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Ever since signing Robinson Cano, the Mariners have been on the lookout for a right handed bat with power, something Marlon Byrd can bring to a lineup. Of course, his reluctance to play for the Mariners organization (at least according to his no-trade clause) makes such a deal difficult. Could that be a reason as to why the trade talks between the Mariners and Philadelphia Phillies have broken down? That’s not known at this point, though it does appear that the talks have hit a serious snag.

Many expect the Phillies to have a significant fire sale and a player like Byrd would be a solid addition for a club hoping to contend for a postseason birth as he isn’t on a bad contract nor will he require much in terms of prospects. Add in that he’s become a very stable player over the past few seasons and he should a difference maker for whomever acquires him.

It seems increasingly unlikely that he’ll remain with the Phillies given their re-building scenario, so it’s simply a matter of where does Marlon Byrd go next. For now, it doesn’t sound like that will be Seattle.