Miami Marlins morning news: Depth added through Rule 5 draft

Marlins News

Miami was busy adding depth through the minor league phases of the Rule 5 draft Thursday, according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro.

After not making a pick in the Major League phase of Thursday morning's Draft, Miami made Minor League phase selections, and the club also had seven players from its Double-A Jacksonville roster snared by other organizations.

Jose Fernandez rumors flew as the Marlins worked to improve their roster in Nashville.

Don Mattingly is notably excited to manage in Miami and is thrilled to be raising a family in the city.

The fences at Marlins Park are set to be brought in and lowered in the coming weeks.

Marcell Ozuna's name was also mentioned in rumors, but he ultimately was not moved either.

Barry Bonds is determined to help Miami's hitters rather than thinking about changing the minds of Hall of Fame voters.

Trading Fernandez might make sense in the future if the return is significant.

Affordable pitching options have become the Marlins' current target.

Around the League

Washington is reportedly in "hot pursuit" of Jason Heyward.

The Angels added Yunel Escobar in exchange for Trevor Gott on Thursday.

San Diego acquired Christian Bethancourt from the Braves.

Batlimoe's view of Chris Davis is unclear as the club exited the meetings.

At Fish Stripes

-Marlins 'back-burnered' Ozuna deal, Fernandez not being shopped - Fish Stripes

With all of the commotion surrounding Jose Fernandez, searching for a team to trade Marcell Ozuna to was put on hold. As the dust settled, both players remained in Marlins uniforms and they are likely to still be wearing them come Opening Day.

-Miami Marlins trade rumors: Price for Jose Fernandez, Marcell Ozuna kept consistent - Fish Stripes

The Marlins are asking for a lot. But they are not changing their minds.

2016 Miami Marlins Offseason Plan: A.J. Ramos trade - Fish Stripes
The Marlins should not have a strong need for a shutdown closer, and A.J. Ramos may not be the most reliable choice. His value may never be higher than after the 2015 season.

-Miami Marlins need two starters after non-tendering Henderson Alvarez - Fish Stripes

Alvarez had success while healthy. But the Marlins decided tendering him a contract was not worth the risk.

-Miami Marlins signing Kenta Maeda would make a lot of sense - Fish Stripes

The Marlins need a top of the rotation arm, and two Japanese stars on the same team could send the team's international revenue sky-rocketing.

-Miami Marlins interested in Ian Kennedy, attempted to sign John Lackey - Fish Stripes

Miami could turn to Ian Kennedy in its pursuit of Ian Kennedy.