Report: White Sox, Padres contacted Marlins about Yelich
One of the biggest trade chips still in possession of the rebuilding Miami Marlins appears to be drawing interest from two other clubs fully engaged in rebuild mode.
The Chicago White Sox and San Diego Padres have both reportedly contacted the Marlins about outfielder Christian Yelich, sources told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.
Although both the White Sox and Padres are, like the Marlins, rebuilding, Yelich likely appeals to both because of his years of team control remaining. Including his 2022 club option, the 26-year-old is under contract for another five years and $58.25 million - a figure that's far lower than what some major free agents are asking for.
Both teams also have farm systems that are loaded with top prospects, potentially giving them enough capital to satisfy the Marlins in a trade. Although the Marlins are listening, they're reportedly not looking to trade Yelich for anything less than a "huge overpay," since his reasonable long-term salary and age would also make him a good piece for the Marlins to build around.
The Padres would appear to have space for Yelich in either left or center field, alongside youngsters Hunter Renfroe and Manuel Margot. Jose Pirela is currently slated to be their everyday left fielder, but with his versatility could shift into a utility role - a spot now vacated after Saturday's trade of Yangervis Solarte - if they were to acquire Yelich.
Over on the South Side, meanwhile, Yelich would represent a significant outfield upgrade for the White Sox going forward. Their projected center fielder in 2018 looks to be Charlie Tilson, a promising youngster and Chicago native - but one who hasn't played since suffering a leg injury in his 2016 big-league debut.
Other teams reportedly interested in Yelich include the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and Washington Nationals. Miami is reportedly eyeing top outfield prospect Victor Robles in talks with Washington.
Yelich, a former Gold Glove and Silver Slugger winner, hit .282/.369/.439 with 18 homers, 16 stolen bases, and 100 runs scored for the Marlins last season.