Part 6/9:
Another pivotal trade emerged during the Marlins' fire sale in 2019, when catcher JT Realmuto was sent to the Philadelphia Phillies. Miami's return, featuring top prospect Sixto Sanchez, seemed promising, especially considering Sanchez’s 2020 success. However, Realmuto quickly excelled in Philadelphia, earning accolades that bolstered the Phillies' lineup.
As the Phillies gained considerable value from Realmuto’s tenure, the Marlins’ decision to part ways with one of MLB's elite catchers looked increasingly regrettable. This provided yet another illustration of how intra-division trades can have unexpected and far-reaching impacts.