Marlins not expected to add reliever before Spring Training begins

Miami reportedly expressed interest in adding bullpen depth earlier this week. But according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro, the club is not expected to make any notable additions to its bullpen before pitchers and catcher report on Friday.

After improving both the starting rotation and lineup, the Marlins were expected to explore possible bullpen upgrades. The club is confident that its bullpen unit, led by closer Steve Cishek and setup men Mike Dunn and Bryan Morris, will be productive again in 2015. But adding another top arm would have given the Marlins notable depth and a better opportunity to close games in the seventh or eighth innings.

Frisaro reported over the weekend that the Marlins had significant interest in Rodriguez, however the club rightfully refuses to overpay. K-Rod is represented by Scott Boras and the asking price, according to MLB Trade Rumors, is too high. The Marlins are open to giving Rodriguez a two-year, $10 million contract, but that may not be enough to land the veteran reliever with closing experience. Toronto and Milwaukee are among the teams still seeking closers, and Rodriguez may be able to land a larger contract with a larger market club.

USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported on Wednesday night that Rodriguez is seeking $10 million on a one-year deal, which likely is not realistic for the Marlins. Ultimately, $10 million is comparable to a closer's salary, and the Marlins are not in need of a reliever to close games.

While adding Rodriguez may not be realistic, the Marlins were thought to be very interested in lefty Phil Coke. Miami was hoping to add Coke on a minor league deal, however since the end of the season he has made it clear he is seeking a major league contract. The Marlins, though, do not want to commit to a major league deal since Rule 5 draft pick Andrew McKirahan should have a good chance of making the roster. Dunn is the only lefty who will certainly make the club, but lefty depth is key for Miami. If Coke was signed, McKirahan would not have much of a chance according to Frisaro, so Coke is not likely to pitch in Miami in 2015.

Miami was not linked to Joba Chamberlain much this offseason, but Frisaro notes the Marlins do not have interest in him. The Marlins have right-handed relief depth, and Nick Masset, a non-roster invitee, could make the team with a solid spring.

The Marlins are confident in their bullpen, but will likely continue to determine if it is possible to upgrade. Miami does not want to spend a ton on a reliever, and the bullpen as it stands now may be productive enough.