Contract talks have started between Giancarlo Stanton and the Marlins, who are prepared to offer a multiyear deal, according to an ESPN.com report

President of baseball operations Mike Hill declined to say whether the Marlins have made an offer, but they've begun discussions with agent Joel Wolfe regarding an agreement with the right fielder.

"Negotiations are ongoing,'' Hill said Wednesday. "We're hopeful we'll be able to make him a Marlin for many years to come.''