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Miami is still seeking a fourth outfielder, and is hoping to add one before the start of spring training. The Marlins have been linked to Ichiro Suzuki, and according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald, Miami made Suzuki a one-year, $2 million contract offer and remains optimistic but not certain that a deal will get done.
The Marlins have offered a one-year contract in the $2 million range to Ichiro and the Marlins remain optimistic, but not certain, that a deal will be struck.
Aside from determining whether Dan Haren will pitch for the club in 2015, the Marlins appear to have their roster set, with the exception of a few bullpen and bench spots. Suzuki would likely prove to be a solid addition to a young core, and despite his age, has had success. Suzuki posted a .284/.324/.340 batting line to complement one home run and 22 RBIs in 143 games with the Yankees last season.
The interest appears to be mutual, however Suzuki could be holding out to determine if there is a club that could guarantee him more playing time. While he would get an occational spot start for the Marlins, Suzuki would predominantly serve as a pinch hitter or substitution late in games. Christian Yelich, Marcell Ozuna, and Giancarlo Stanton all had solid 2014 campaigns, which led to the Marlins fielding one of the best outfields in all of baseball. Yelich, Ozuna, and Stanton are all key components of the Marlins' offense, meaning Suzuki would not see playing time that frequently.
In addition to seeking consistent playing time, Suzuki could also be reluctant to sign with the Marlins because of the proposed deal. MLB.com's Joe Frisaro reported last week the Marlins were open to a multiyear deal with Suzuki, although the one-year proposal may suggest Miami does not believe Suzuki will be as efficient moving forward. While he has still been solid offensively, Suzuki has seen a drop off in his production.
Adding Suzuki would improve the Marlins' roster, but the club does have other options. Nate Schierholtz may be available at a reasonable price after an inconsistent 2014 season, and a trade could remain possible if the deal is right for both sides.