Marlins’ Trade Deadline: Evaluating Connor Norby & Kyle Stowers
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
MLB: Arizona Diamondbacks at Miami Marlins
Marlins’ 2024 MLB Trade Deadline
The Miami Marlins’ 2024 MLB Trade Deadline strategy was unmistakable—sell off any valuable assets.
After a disappointing start to the season, the trade of Luis Arraez, just one year after acquiring him, made it clear that the new front office was eager to leave its mark on the organization.
Whether you agree with their approach or not, the Marlins committed fully to their plan and extracted maximum value from their tradeable players.
They executed six trades in total, but the most surprising in terms of return was their deal with the Baltimore Orioles. The Marlins parted ways with Trevor Rogers, the 13th overall pick in the 2017 draft, after a couple of inconsistent seasons following his 2021 All-Star selection.
Industry insiders widely regarded the return as an overpay. The Orioles, known for their stacked farm system, traded from their surplus of offensive talent.
The Marlins acquired infield prospect Connor Norby and outfielder Kyle Stowers.
Regardless of your opinion on the prospects of Norby and Stowers, it’s hard to deny that the Marlins secured more than fair value for Rogers.
Norby and Stowers find themselves in an organization with a clear path to everyday playing time, something they lacked in Baltimore. This will give them the chance to showcase their abilities consistently.
Connor Norby
Drafted in the second round of the 2022 draft, Norby was touted as one of the best hitters in his class out of ECU. His simple, practical approach at the plate led to his rapid ascent through the minor leagues.
After a solid finish to the 2023 season, where he advanced across all three minor league levels in one year, 2024 was supposed to be Norby’s breakout year with the Orioles’ loaded infield. However, the season didn’t start as he had hoped.
Norby’s struggles could have stemmed from frustration at being stuck in the minors despite proving himself. In response, the Orioles had him play multiple positions in Triple-A Norfolk, including second base, outfield, and third base.
Norby has publicly stated that second base is where he feels most comfortable, but the Marlins likely have other plans for him. Upon joining the organization, Norby was assigned to Triple-A to get more reps at third base.
The Marlins had been using Jake Burger at third and Josh Bell at first before Bell was traded to Arizona. With the expectation that Burger would eventually move off third, Norby’s versatility made him an attractive addition, even if third base isn’t his preferred position.
Regardless, Norby is now in a situation where he will receive the regular plate appearances he sought in Baltimore. In his 14 games with Miami, he’s slashing .271/.338/.373 with one home run, a near 30% strikeout rate, and a 9.2% walk rate. His 82% contact rate is something the Marlins are likely pleased with.
The Marlins have been known for developing pitching talent but have struggled to do the same with hitters. Acquiring an MLB-ready hitter like Norby was an intelligent move.
The Marlins aren’t necessarily looking for Norby to be an above-average Major League player; they’re seeking consistency, and Norby appears ready to deliver that.
Kyle Stowers
Stowers found himself the odd man out in Baltimore’s crowded outfield. After shuttling between Baltimore and Norfolk, the Orioles eventually left him in Triple-A to boost his trade value. Stowers made the most of the opportunity, becoming Norfolk’s home-run king.
In Miami, Stowers, like Norby, has the chance to prove himself as an everyday major leaguer. However, his start with the Marlins has been rough.
After striking out in six of his first seven at-bats, Stowers is currently hitting .131/.197/.131 with 26 strikeouts in 61 at-bats over 19 games. Manager Skip Schumaker has shown confidence in Stowers despite his struggles, noting his high baseball IQ, power, and above-average base running.
Stowers can settle in and prove himself in Miami with consistent playing time, potentially becoming a vital part of the Marlins’ future in 2025.
Did the Marlins “Win the Trade”?
Ultimately, this trade could be seen as a surplus-for-surplus deal for both teams.
The Orioles dealt from their offensive surplus, while the Marlins, known for developing pitching talent, will see key arms like Sandy Alcantara, Eury Perez, and Braxton Garrett return to the rotation in 2025. The fact that Rogers was recently optioned to Triple-A by Baltimore only makes this deal look more favorable for Miami.
The Marlins are among the best organizations for young players looking to establish themselves at the Major League level. Connor Norby and Kyle Stowers filled two roles the organization wanted to address.
While the trade may be perceived as a “win” for the Marlins, the ultimate success depends on how each player maximizes their opportunities moving forward.
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MLB: Arizona Diamondbacks at Miami Marlins
Marlins’ 2024 MLB Trade Deadline
The Miami Marlins’ 2024 MLB Trade Deadline strategy was unmistakable—sell off any valuable assets.
After a disappointing start to the season, the trade of Luis Arraez, just one year after acquiring him, made it clear that the new front office was eager to leave its mark on the organization.
Whether you agree with their approach or not, the Marlins committed fully to their plan and extracted maximum value from their tradeable players.
They executed six trades in total, but the most surprising in terms of return was their deal with the Baltimore Orioles. The Marlins parted ways with Trevor Rogers, the 13th overall pick in the 2017 draft, after a couple of inconsistent seasons following his 2021 All-Star selection.
Industry insiders widely regarded the return as an overpay. The Orioles, known for their stacked farm system, traded from their surplus of offensive talent.
The Marlins acquired infield prospect Connor Norby and outfielder Kyle Stowers.
Regardless of your opinion on the prospects of Norby and Stowers, it’s hard to deny that the Marlins secured more than fair value for Rogers.
Norby and Stowers find themselves in an organization with a clear path to everyday playing time, something they lacked in Baltimore. This will give them the chance to showcase their abilities consistently.
