What the Wei-Yin Chen signing means for Marlins' Ozuna
The Miami Marlins have struck a five-year deal with Wei-Yin Chen, but it's impact on the roster is being felt in more than just the rotation.
According to Joe Frisaro at MLB.com, this signing should end the trade talk for outfielder Marcell Ozuna:
The signing of Wei-Yin Chen basically ends any thoughts the #Marlins have about trading OF Marcell Ozuna for a pitcher.
— Joe Frisaro (@JoeFrisaro) January 12, 2016
Ozuna, 25, has been at the center of trade speculation this offseason. It's been reported that owner Jeffrey Loria "can't stand" him and would prefer to move him. Recently, though, hitting coach Barry Bonds and skipper Don Mattingly reportedly both want Ozuna on the team, believing they can mold him into a 30/30 player.
The Dominican Republic native hit .259 with 10 home runs and 44 RBI in 123 games in 2015, but was demoted from July 6 to August 14. That demotion caused his agent Scott Boras to publicly clash with the Marlins front office.
Chen, Ozuna and Fernandez are all represented by Boras.
