Marlins Discussing Liam Hicks, Kyle Stowers In Trade Talks

Key Points:

• The Miami Marlins have rebounded from a 12-game losing streak to win six of their last seven games, improving their record to 58-55 and positioning themselves as potential buyers or sellers ahead of the trade deadline.
• First baseman/outfielder Kyle Stowers and catcher/first baseman Liam Hicks are more actively discussed in trade talks than Otto Lopez or Xavier Edwards, with Hicks attracting interest from teams like the Rays and Red Sox due to his strong hitting and defensive versatility.
• Hicks, a Rule 5 Draft pickup, has posted a .282/.363/.432 slash line with 14 home runs in 409 plate appearances, excelling especially against right-handed pitching, and serves as a valuable backup catcher and designated hitter option for Miami.
• Prospect Joe Mack’s recent promotion and potential contract extension may make Hicks expendable as a backup catcher, while Stowers has shown improved performance since June 1, hitting 13 homers with a .249/.336/.540 line over 218 plate appearances.
• Both Stowers and Hicks are under team control for several more years, meaning Miami would require substantial offers to trade them, but the Marlins remain open to listening to deals, especially given the Rays’ interest and their history of transactions with Miami’s front office.