Derek Jeter's attempt to build a winner in Miami will apparently begin by cutting costs.
The Marlins' new ownership group will reportedly look to shed payroll to approximately $90 million for the 2018 season, Major League Baseball sources told Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald.
Miami currently has $95.3 million committed to guaranteed contracts for next season, which could grow to approximately $122.8 million when factoring in players eligible for arbitration.
Jeter could quickly eliminate substantial payroll should he deal Giancarlo Stanton. The slugger is owed a team-high $25 million in 2018 and has close to $300 million remaining on his deal.
Veterans Martin Prado and Edinson Volquez will earn $13.5 million and $13 million, respectively, in 2018, but it's unlikely either will be dealt. Prado only appeared in 37 games this season, while Volquez recently underwent Tommy John surgery.
The most attractive trade pieces for rival teams will likely be young stars Marcell Ozuna and Christian Yelich, while speedster Dee Gordon could also be an enticing option.
Ozuna, who is projected to earn $10.9 million in his second year of arbitration, has two more years of control that could help net the Marlins a strong return. Yelich is under even more control, and at a discount. The 25-year-old is owed $44.5 million over the next four seasons, and has a $15-million option for 2022. Gordon has $38.9 million over three years left on his deal.
