Money a major factor in Marlins offseason moves

[Providence A's]

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald...s/13094248.htm

Word is at least two top Marlins executives weren't happy that owner Jeffrey Loria told Carlos Delgado late in the season that he won't be traded. It's not that the team's front office insists on trading Delgado (.301, 33 homers, 115 RBI). But because of payroll constraints, they would like flexibility to consider offers.

Even so, there is nothing to keep Florida from dealing Delgado, who's owed $13.5 million in 2006 in the second year of a four-year, $52 million deal. But that would hurt Loria's credibility. ''If you can't take Jeffrey's word, who's word can you take?'' said Delgado's agent, David Sloane, who added he would be surprised if his client is dealt.

It's curious the Marlins have refused to say publicly whether Delgado will be back. If Delgado is traded, he has the right to demand another trade in a year. Trading Mike Lowell (due $9 million in '06 and '07) remains a Marlins priority.

Unless the Marlins can free up some money, it doesn't appear that they'll be able to do too much.

[RockSports17]

It's part of the business, if Marlins need to clear up salary, then they'll have to do what they have to do.

Loria is pretty stupid, IMO, for telling Delgado that he won't be traded.