Marlins' late-inning bullpen anchor looks like a deadline lock

Jared Bloom

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Marlins' late-inning bullpen anchor looks like a deadline lock image

The Miami Marlins have been surprisingly active this offseason. They have been involved in a ton of moves so far, which should give the fanbase some hope. 

They struck deals with both Peter Fairbanks and Christopher Morel and acquired multiple players in trades. They acquired Estury Ruiz in a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Owen Cassie, and a haul of prospects in a trade with the Chicago Cubs, and Dillon Lewis and a haul of prospects in a trade with the New York Yankees. 

They were able to get rid of some young arms to help bolster their farm system. Their starting rotation is still considered strong, so these were smart moves. 

MORE: Marlins confident Edward Cabrera trade with Cubs improves their roster

Marlins' late-inning bullpen anchor looks like a deadline lock

Will these moves make this team one to watch? Well, that's a different story. Playing in a division like the NL East, they lack the star power that the Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies have. 

It could be an uphill battle for this team this year. That could cause the front office to engage in trades later in the summer at the deadline. 

If that were to be the case, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand believes Peter Fairbanks could be as good as gone. 

"Given the eternal need for bullpen arms around the Trade Deadline, however, the Marlins could move Fairbanks this summer if their season isn't going well, giving them a prime trade chip. Fairbanks has collected 75 saves while posting a 2.98 ERA over the past three seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, establishing himself as one of the more consistent relievers in the league."

Fairbanks would be a prime target for the teams looking to improve their bullpen talent during the season. So, Miami fans may not want to get too emotionally attached to this reliever this year.

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