The Florida Marlins continue to unload players. Catcher Paul Lo Duca became the latest casualty of the clubs offseason firesale on Sunday when he was traded to the New York Mets for pitching prospect Gabriel Hernandez and a minor leaguer to be named later. This deal comes just two days after Luis Castillo was dealt to the Minnesota Twins. Lo Duca, 33, hit .283 along with 6 home runs and 57 RBI in 132 games with Florida last season. The Brooklyn (New York) native also represented the Marlins in the 2005 All-Star Game. The veteran catcher will make $12.5 million over the next two seasons. The Mets have agreed to pay the salary in its entirety. Gabriel (Gaby) Hernandez split time with the Hagerstown Suns (where he threw a no-hitter) and the St. Lucie Mets last season. The 19-year-old pitcher posted a 6-1 record, 2.43 ERA with Hagerstown and went 2-5 with an ERA of 5.74 for St. Lucie during the 2005 campaign. The Marlins will also receive another minor league player who will be named later. Breaking Down The Deal This deal works well for both parties involved. The Mets fill their need in acquiring an experienced catcher to replace Mike Piazza and the Marlins obtain another skilled minor league pitcher. The new Mets catcher, Lo Duca, calls a nice game behind the plate and features a great throwing arm. The three time all-star is known for his patience at the plate and ability to avoid the strikeout. He will also bring invaluable leadership to the Mets franchise. When Lo Duca was dealt by former GM Paul DePodesta from Los Angeles to Florida in July of 2004, it sparked controversy in the Dodgers clubhouse. The trade ultimately marked the beginning of the end for the Dodgers and DePodesta. Gaby Hernandez, rated in 2005 by Baseball America as the Mets 4th best prospect, adds another potentially deadly arm to the Marlins prospect barn. The young right-hander features an 89-94 mph sinker that is devastating. He also features a sharp curveball that he can throw for strikes consistently. Winner: Florida Marlins ? While the Mets acquire a much needed upgrade behind the plate in Lo Duca, Florida obtains a potential ace in Gaby Hernandez. This Marlins club continues to stockpile prospects, which will greatly help their plans for the future. Keep in mind that Florida will also receive one more minor league player to complete the deal. Who will be the next Florida Marlin to leave town? Juan Pierre? Ron Villone? I guess we?ll find out soon enough ? the 2005 Baseball Winter Meetings commence on Monday in Dallas.