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Report: Dodgers, Pirates actively discussing Marte

Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Los Angeles Dodgers' reported search for a new outfielder has seemingly taken them to Pittsburgh.

The Dodgers are involved in "active and ongoing" discussions with the Pirates regarding Starling Marte, sources told Michael J. Duarte of NBC Los Angeles.

While it's unknown if a deal is close, Duarte notes the two sides have been in contact about a trade in previous weeks.

After trading Yasiel Puig and Matt Kemp on Dec. 21, the Dodgers have continued to hunt for ways to reshape their outfield. They've reportedly discussed a deal with free agent A.J. Pollock and have apparently spoken to the Chicago White Sox about a trade involving Joc Pederson.

Marte could provide the Dodgers with a nice blend of speed, power, and defense.

In 145 games last season, Marte stole 33 bases, posted the highest slugging percentage (.460) of his career, and was worth the most WAR (3.7) among qualified Pirates players, according to Fangraphs.

He's been one of the best defensive left fielders in baseball throughout his career, although his numbers in center field last season were slightly above average.

YEAR POS INN FLD% UZR DRS
2013 LF 1038.1 .968 4.5 18
2014 LF 943.2 .969 2.0 7
2015 LF 1186.1 .995 7.7 24
2016 LF 966.2 .979 5.1 19
2017 LF 476 1.000 5.8 9
2018 CF 1196.1 .991 3.2 1

The 30-year-old Dominican is owed $10.3 million this coming season. His contract also includes $11.5-million and $12.5-million team options in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

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