MARLINS’ PHELPS DEALT TO MARINERS FOR FOUR PROSPECTS

MIAMI» The Marlins traded righthanded pitcher David Phelps to the Mariners for four prospects, including highly regarded outfielder Brayan Hernandez, a person familiar with the deal said Thursday.

Phelps is 2-4 with a 3.45 ERA in 44 games and 47 innings this season, all out of the bullpen. He is a six-year veteran with 64 career starts.

Hernandez, a 19-year-old Venezuelan, is batting .259 in 31 games in the minors this year.

The Mariners made the deal at the start of a key 10-game homestand that starts against the Yankees and leads into the trade deadline. After a 5-1 trip following the all-star break, the Mariners are 48-48 and 1½ games behind the Yankees in the American League wild-card standings.

The Marlins are out of playoff contention and looking to upgrade a farm system widely ranked among the worst in the majors.

Phelps will join a Mariners bullpen that was overworked during the first half of the season as the team dealt with major injuries to the rotation. The Mariners rank fifth in the American League in innings pitched by the bullpen.

Phelps will be under Seattle’s control through the 2018 season.

Sandoval returning to Giants.

FRANCISCO» Third baseman Pablo Sandoval plans to sign a minorleague contract to return to the Giants, a person with knowledge of his intentions said Thursday.

Sandoval technically will not be free to agree to a deal with a team until 3 p.m. MDT on Friday upon clearing waivers.

Giants general manager Bobby Evans declined to confirm San Francisco’s interest in bringing back the Kung Fu Panda, as he became known and beloved in the Bay Area.

Target Field adding Kelly statue.

MINNEAPOLIS» Former manager Tom Kelly will become the latest Twins legend to have his likeness on display at the ballpark.

The Twins will honor Kelly with a pregame ceremony on the plaza outside Target Field on Friday afternoon.

His will be the eighth bronze statue to be installed, all built by local artist Bill Mack. The others are Rod Carew, Harmon Killebrew, Kirby Puckett, Calvin Griffith, Carl and Eloise Pohlad, Tony Oliva and Kent Hrbek.

Footnote.

Just days after catching boos after snagging a foul ball at a Mets game, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said he’s never seen a politician cheered at a sports event except for President George W. Bush after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.