After losing their last two games, the Marlins are now seven games out in the NL East. The team had an interesting July, shipping off Jorge Cantu on the 30th and acquiring Will Ohman the following day. Their playoff chances stand at 5.8%, according to Baseball Prospectus, so it's not time to fold 'em yet. But if the Marlins do decide to sell later this month, what can they offer?
Forget about trades of Dan Uggla or Ricky Nolasco. The Marlins would like to extend the pair this winter, and August wouldn't be an ideal time to deal them anyway. Closer Leo Nunez probably will not be traded this month either.
Cody Ross could become available. The versatile 29-year-old outfielder is hitting .274/.326/.414 on the season, but has shown more power in the past. There's been speculation the Marlins might intend to non-tender Ross after the season, making a trade the best course if they fall out of contention. For that reason I'd expect them to wait to place Ross on waivers. The Phillies and Red Sox might still be interested, and there's also the possibility of a team claiming him with an eye on next year.
The Marlins could flip Ohman, though there are other southpaws out there who have been tougher on lefties. Wes Helms could be moved, though the Marlins are said to be high on him. Reliever Jose Veras would be interesting to some clubs, given his 94 mph fastball and 12.4 K/9. Veras cleared waivers in April, but teams are more desperate now.
