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Miami is expected to pursue starting pitching depth this winter, and if the club feels it cannot compete with big market teams for top free agents, the club might still have an option. According to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro, Yovani Gallardo could emerge as a "realistic" free agent target for the Marlins.
Although the Marlins might not be considering David Price-type starter, the next tier of free agent pitchers could give the organization a handful of candidates to consider. Miami was one of many clubs recently linked to Zack Greinke, who will reportedly opt out of his current contract, however he too might demand too extensive of a contract.
Gallardo was once considered Milwaukee's ace and pitched well with the Rangers throughout 2015. Over 184.1 innings and 33 starts, Gallardo pitched to a 3.42 ERA and 4.00 FIP. He has made 30 starts in each of the last seven seasons and could prove to be the durable starter the Marlins are seeking behind Jose Fernandez in the rotation.
Beyond Fernandez, the Marlins do not have a lot of certainty within the rotation heading into the off-season. Tom Koehler pitched well and was consistent, however Henderson Alvarez spent most of the season on the disabled list with a shoulder injury and Jarred Cosart was out with vertigo-type symptoms. Adam Conley and Justin Nicolino might have pitched well enough throughout the second half to have their names in the conversation, but Miami will likely express interesting in adding at least one if not several starters with a notable amount of experience.
If Greinke and Price are out of Miami's price range, Johnny Cueto might be too. Since he has thrived in Kansas City, Frisaro notes he too could receive a large deal this winter.
Gallardo, 29, might only request a two or three year deal moving forward. He signed a five-year, $30.1 million deal that included an option year before the 2010 campaign. Even though he had a solid season, Gallardo could still be affordable.
Miami wants to add starting pitching and Gallardo has proven he can be effective. Signing Gallardo would likely improve the Marlins' rotation significantly.