With the trade deadline on the horizon and the Marlins still unsure if they'll be buyers on sellers (they're 5.5 games back in the Wild Card Race), speculation has begun to ripple across the internet about what the team might do.
And today, USA Today unleashed a pretty big one.
Citing sources, Bob Nightengale reported the Marlins have had conversations with the Boston Red Sox about sending third baseman Hanley Ramirez and former closer Heath Bell to the northeast for left fielder Carl Crawford and an unnamed prospect.
Is it true?
Not according to the Marlins. A source with direct knowledge of the situation told The Miami Herald the USA Today report was as laughable as Tuesday's by ESPN's Buster Olney, who floated the idea the Marlins might even be willing to trade All-Star right fielder Giancarlo Stanton if the deal was right.
Olney said Wednesday while the Marlins-Red Sox trade was discussed as a concept, it was immediately dismissed and there are no ongoing discussions.
Crawford, a four-time All-Star, is in the second year of an seven-year, $142 million deal, which is a record for an outfielder. Ramirez, a three-time All-Star and former batting champion, is in the fourth year of a six-year, $70 million contract. And Bell, a three-time All-Star, is in the first year of a three-year, $27 million pact.
USA Today says Marlins vice president Dan Jennings is in Boston scouting Crawford. The Red Sox told USA Today they aren't shopping him.
Of course, where there is smoke there always could be fire and it's no secret the Marlins have issues to address. But they could also wait until the off-season to do it.
Getting speed in the outfield is ideal, especially in left field with the thought that Logan Morrison will likely be moved to first base after this season. Pitching is also a priority because Anibal Sanchez is a free agent after the season. Left-hander Wade LeBlanc could be moved to the starting rotation if a starter is moved.
