Miami Marlins not expected to pursue Edward Mujica

Miami's bullpen has had a rough start to the year but the club may not be prepared to make a move. Edward Mujica was designated for assignment by the Red Sox on Thursday, however according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro, the Marlins are not expected to express interest in the veteran reliever.

Mujica, 30, spent the 2011 season with the Marlins and was subsequently dealt in July of 2012. He posted a 2.96 ERA and 3.20 FIP in 76.0 innings with Miami in 2011 and proved to be a versatile and efficient late innings option. However, his inability to throw strikes consistently led the Red Sox to move on. Mujica posted a 4.61 ERA and 5.72 FIP in 13.2 innings with the Red Sox before being designated but had success in 60.0 innings with Boston last season.

Frisaro adds Mujica's fastball velocity has decreased slightly since he left Miami and as a result, the Marlins may not inclined to add him. The Marlins' bullpen already has numerous power arms and late inning options, with Mike Dunn, Bryan Morris, and A.J. Ramos serving as Miami's setup men. If the Marlins feel the need to add to the bullpen, Carter Capps could be promoted.

Miami's bullpen has walked the fourth most number of batters (33) in the National League, tossed 88.1 innings, and posted a 4.21 ERA. The rotation has been without both Jose Fernandez and Henderson Alvarez, and as a result, the Marlins have relied on Mat Latos, Dan Haren, and Jarred Cosart to anchor the rotation. Throughout April, the Marlins' starters had some difficulty pitching late in games, and consecutive quality starts could be the solution to the club's bullpen inconsistencies.

The Marlins will likely wait before opting to add bullpen depth, and while Mujica may prove to be an intriguing option, his struggles with Boston may be enough to have the Marlins explore other candidates first. Steve Cishek has started pitching well, and once the Marlins' starters become even more consistent, the bullpen may begin to thrive. Miami does not necessarily need to add to its bullpen. Consistency from its current crop of relievers will likely prove to be enough.