Marlins Unexpected Trade Chip Draws Mets, Blue Jays Interest as MLB Deadline Heats Up

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the spotlight begins to shift with under-the-radar performers quietly making a case for themselves. Among them is a Marlins pitcher posting a solid 3.33 ERA over 15 starts this season. Now, that’s an impressive stat line, considering his modest $1.95 million salary. With the race to October heating up, World Series hopefuls are scouring the market for reinforcements. And players like these often prove to be the most impactful acquisitions at the trade deadline.

Take David Justice, for instance. When the Yankees acquired him from the Indians in 2000, few saw it as a season-defining move. Yet, Justice went on to hit .305 with 20 homers in just 78 games, earning ALCS MVP honors and cementing his place in the Yankees set-up.

Fast forward to this season, and a similar scenario could be brewing. The spotlight now shines on Edward Cabrera from the Marlins. Rumors are swirling that teams like the Mets and Blue Jays are reportedly pursuing him. But here’s the twist: despite the interest, Cabrera might be the least likely Marlin to be moved. Why? Let’s dive in.

The Cubs, Mets, and several other teams are among the most interested,” MLB insider Francys Romero shared.

The Cubs, Mets, and several other teams are among the most interested.

— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) July 9, 2025

Well, the Mets are just half a game behind the Phillies in the NL East and are clearly all-in on making a serious championship push in 2025. They’ve worked with Peter Bendix’s front office before, but never on a deal involving someone as significant as Cabrera. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays currently have one of the league’s worst starting pitching ERAs. An underwhelming 4.15, and so it’s no surprise they’re in the market for a high-impact arm like Cabrera.

But why does it seem that Cabrera’s trading is unexpected?

Cabrera is making just $1.95 million this season, and he has three years left before hitting free agency in 2029. So, that makes him a valuable trade chip. If the Marlins decide to move him at the deadline, they could get a solid return.

That said, the Marlins will be no hurry to push it. At present, they are sitting with a 42-48 record in the NL East. Yes, they’re seven games out of a wild-card spot, but it’s a bit of a gray area heading into the deadline. With the possibility of making the postseason still there, they might not want to let go of a top performer in a rush.

But there is no denying that the interest for Cabrera is there!

Suitors lining up for the Marlins’ pitcher

It’s not only the Mets and the Blue Jays who are interested in getting their hands on Cabrera. Teams like the Yankees and Cubs are also lining up for the Marlins’ pitcher.

Notably, the Cubs have been expected to be in the market for a starting pitcher ever since Justin Steele went down with a season-ending elbow injury. Things got a little tougher last week when veteran righty Jameson Taillon also landed on the IL with a calf strain, though he should be back later this season. Despite the setbacks, the Cubs head into Wednesday night holding a two-game lead in the NL Central.

So, a lot of teams are behind Cabrera. And as far as the Cubs and the Marlins are concerned, there’s also a bit of a trade history between them. They made a small deal last offseason, flipping Vidal Brujan for Matt Mervis. It would not be surprising if another deal is in the works now.

Outside of those teams, the Yankees also seem like a natural fit for Cabrera. With Gerrit Cole out and Marcus Stroman struggling, their rotation has been hit hard. Cabrera could be exactly the kind of boost they need.

This is a typical situation for the Marlins before the trade deadline, with one of their performers attracting all the attention. But with a postseason berth still in contention, trading Cabrera might be too risky for the team.

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