The Miami Marlins approached the 2025 MLB trade deadline with surprising restraint. This was a big change from their aggressive trading just a year before.
After a rough 2024 season with 100 losses, most people figured the team’s leadership would start over. Instead, Peter Bendix, the team’s president of baseball operations, made just two trades and called it a “soft sell.”
This strategy hints at growing confidence in the current roster and the team’s future. It’s not what most fans expected, but maybe that’s the point.
What Trades Did the Marlins Make at the 2025 Deadline?
The Marlins only made two trades, choosing to deal from areas where they had some flexibility. Catcher Nick Fortes went to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for Double-A outfielder Matthew Etzel.
Outfielder Jesús Sánchez landed with the Houston Astros. In return, Miami picked up pitcher Ryan Gusto and two prospects: infielder Chase Jaworsky and outfielder Esmil Valencia.
These moves aimed to strengthen the farm system without tearing apart the Major League roster. It’s a balancing act, and it shows in the kinds of deals they made.
The Decision to Hold Key Players
Rumors swirled about stars like Sandy Alcantara, Edward Cabrera, and Cal Quantrill possibly being traded. The Marlins decided to keep their core players.
Reliever Anthony Bender, another frequent name in trade talks, also stayed. Bendix said that holding onto these players was part of a bigger plan for sustainable success, not just a quick rebuild.
Negotiations with teams like the Cubs and Reds broke down because Miami set high asking prices for their controllable players. The Marlins just weren’t willing to give up future stars unless a deal truly made sense for the long haul.
Why the Marlins Opted for a “Soft Sell” Approach
Bendix said the front office wasn’t simply standing still—they were making thoughtful, strategic moves. The team’s recent hot streak played a big role in that decision.
After winning five straight series, the Marlins suddenly had momentum and a flicker of hope for a late-season playoff push. They were still seven games back of the final NL Wild Card spot, but the energy was different.
This surge made leadership believe even more in the current roster’s potential. Sometimes, you’ve just got to trust the group you have.
Building for the Future While Trusting the Present
The goal wasn’t to tear things down, but to balance development with staying competitive right now. Bendix stressed the importance of supporting current players while adding new talent to the farm system.
This approach shows the organization wants to build a culture of lasting success—one that can actually compete every year. It’s a tough needle to thread, but it’s a worthy one.
The Clubhouse’s Reaction
Manager Clayton McCullough said he was happy to keep most of the team together. He thinks continuity will help morale and give the group a real shot at the playoffs.
Players seemed to agree. Ace Sandy Alcantara said he was relieved to stay in Miami, calling it his “home.”
That kind of loyalty matters, both on and off the field.
Player Development Remains a Priority
Bendix also pointed out the front office’s focus on player development. By keeping young, controllable talent, the Marlins doubled down on growing homegrown players who can help for years to come.
Adding prospects like Matthew Etzel, Chase Jaworsky, and Esmil Valencia fits right into that vision. There’s always room for new potential in the pipeline.
A Disciplined Approach for a Better Tomorrow
The Marlins’ cautious yet optimistic approach at the 2025 trade deadline says a lot about where this team is headed. They’re finally starting to see some clarity in their long-term project.
Sure, a playoff spot this season looks like a long shot. Still, the front office refuses to give up the future for a quick fix.
They want to build something sustainable—something that might actually last. That kind of discipline isn’t flashy, but it does show a real commitment to winning over the long haul.
Miami fans have dealt with plenty of turbulence. Now, there’s at least a clear plan, and maybe even a little hope.
The Marlins didn’t make a ton of moves at the deadline, but they’re laying the groundwork for something better. They’re putting faith in the current group to deliver, at least for now.
Here is the source article for this story: Peter Bendix addresses Marlins’ quiet trade deadline
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Stadium Guides
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s