The Miami Marlins have been relatively quiet this offseason, making a couple of modest, low-risk additions to the pitching staff. And while it’s possible the front office is content with where things stand heading into spring training, this might be the perfect moment to pick up the phone and call Houston. Because there’s a potential opportunity sitting right there - and it checks a lot of boxes for a Marlins team still searching for answers at first base.
Let’s start with the facts: the Astros are reportedly open to moving one of two impact corner infielders - Isaac Paredes or Christian Walker. That’s according to multiple reports, and it’s not just smoke. Both players are legitimate middle-of-the-order bats who could immediately become the Marlins’ best offensive weapon at a position of need.
Walker, in particular, is an intriguing fit. He’s a year removed from a three-year run as a Gold Glove first baseman, and while his defense may not be quite as elite as it once was, there’s still plenty of value in the glove - and even more in the bat. He brings proven power, playoff experience, and the kind of veteran presence that could help stabilize a young Marlins lineup still trying to find its identity.
Paredes, on the other hand, offers more versatility. He’s capable of playing both third and first, and he’s still in his arbitration years - meaning he’s under team control and not yet commanding a massive salary. That makes him a more expensive trade target in terms of prospect capital, but also a more flexible long-term piece.
Now, here’s where it gets even more interesting: Houston is reportedly looking for left-handed hitting outfielders, maybe a backup catcher, and potentially someone to help offset salary. That’s not exactly a secret wish list - it’s a profile the Marlins are uniquely positioned to deliver on.
Even after parting ways with **Victor Mesa Jr. **, Miami still has four lefty-hitting outfielders: Owen Caissie, Griffin Conine, Jakob Marsee, and Kyle Stowers.
Each brings something different to the table, and yes, there are strong arguments for keeping all of them. Marsee, coming off a breakout 2025 and capable of playing center field, is likely untouchable.
Caissie’s prospect pedigree puts him in that same category. Stowers?
He might’ve been off-limits too - until his contract extension talks reportedly hit a wall. That’s the kind of wrinkle that can change the calculus.
Then there’s Conine. He’s younger than Walker and has some upside, but he probably has the thinnest case to stick around, aside from the family legacy. In a potential Walker deal, he might be the most logical piece to move - and his trade value wouldn’t be a deal-breaker.
And Miami’s catcher situation could come into play here too. With Joe Mack expected to force his way onto the roster by May, the Marlins could be looking at a three-catcher logjam.
That makes Liam Hicks a potential trade chip. Moving Hicks would open up more opportunity for Agustin Ramirez to develop and allow the Marlins to get their best defensive catcher - Mack - on the roster sooner rather than later.
That may not be ideal from a service-time standpoint, but it would make the team better on Day 1.
And let’s be real: the Marlins could use a little goodwill right now. With CBA talks looming and the league paying close attention to how revenue-sharing dollars are spent, showing a willingness to invest in the roster - even just a little - could go a long way.
Trading for Walker and picking up half of his contract? That’s a move that signals intent.
It’s not a full-on spending spree, but it’s a clear step toward competing. And it likely wouldn’t cost the Marlins much in terms of prospect capital.
As for Paredes, the price tag would almost certainly be higher. He’s younger, cheaper, and more versatile - all things that drive up the asking price. But if Houston is truly motivated to clear roster space, and if the Marlins are willing to get creative, there’s at least a chance the deal could be more affordable than expected.
Bottom line: this is a real opportunity for Miami. First base remains their biggest question mark, and Houston has two answers available. Whether it’s Walker’s proven power and leadership or Paredes’ upside and control, the Marlins have the pieces to make something happen - and the need to justify doing it.
Peter Bendix should be working the phones. Because this isn’t just about plugging a hole. It’s about showing the fan base - and the rest of the league - that the Marlins are serious about winning in 2026.