MLB rumors: Marlins could throw wrench in Cubs and Cardinals trade deadline plans

The Miami Marlins could hold on to Starling Marte instead of dealing him at the trade deadline, according to a new report.

The Cubs and Cardinals have every reason to make a run at Marlins outfielder Starling Marte. The problem? Miami might not let him go.

According to a report from the Miami Herald, the Marlins have offered Marte a multi-year contract extension.

The Herald’s sources also claim Marte has expressed a desire to stay in Miami, though it would take a three- or four-year $50 million deal to keep him. Details of the offer presented by the Marlins weren’t revealed.

The choice is now in Marte’s hands. If he wants to stick around, the option is on the table.

The centerfielder will be a free agent at the end of the 2021 season. While the Marlins have been expected to trade him before the deadline, they could hold off and accept a compensatory draft pick for him leaving in free agency.

Chicago and St. Louis would certainly prefer Miami to be a seller in the trade market when it comes to Marte.

Marlins centerfielder is a trade option for the Cubs and Cardinals

The Cubs could use Marte’s bat in a bid to get one last something out of their aging core. He’s batting .296/.403/.456 with an OPS of .859.

The Cardinals could also get something out of those numbers while solving some of their lineup shuffling with a capable outfielder.

Marte is in his second season in Miami on a team-friendly deal. He’s also not asking for a ridiculous amount when it comes to an extension.

The real question is how serious the Marlins are about keeping Marte. Without knowing the specifics of their offer, it’s hard to say. Either way, it’s an interesting development for the team and the player.

If an extension doesn’t get done, look for Marte’s name to be a hot commodity before the trade deadline.