Marlins' Martin Prado to undergo knee surgery

Marlins third baseman Martin Prado will undergo knee surgery, according to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports. He will begin baseball activity again in 3-5 weeks, per Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald, though Prado's return to action in 2017 is not a guarantee.

Prado's 2017 season has been a disappointment after the 12-year vet signed a three-year, $40 million extension with the Marlins last September. Prado, 33, has hit just .250/.279/.357 in 147 plate appearances this season, worth an ugly 68 OPS+. The Venezuelan has been more durable in years past, playing more than 125 games each season from 2009-2016.

Prado's third base void has been filled by Derek Dietrich, whose already appeared in 85 games this season. The 28-year-old is hitting .237/.312/.376 in 276 plate appearances, and has appeared at first, second, and third base as well as left field for the Marlins in 2017.

Prado, who had been linked to the Red Sox in trade talks this month, is no longer a viable option for buyers at this year's deadline. However, the Marlins are still open to dealing starter Dan Straily for the right return, reports Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. Outfielders Christian Yelich, Giancarlo Stanton, and Marcell Ozuna are expected to stay put in Miami for the time being as the club undergoes an ownership change.