Miami Marlins rumors: Bronson Arroyo among pitching targets

Miami is still hoping to add a starting pitcher this winter and Bronson Arroyo is among the club's targets, according to veteran baseball reporter Peter Gammons.

And the Marlins are a 3d team w/Reds and Nats interested in Bronson Arroyo's comeback and presence. can't find a betterman

— Peter Gammons (@pgammo) January 25, 2016

Why this rumor makes sense

Although the Marlins signed Wei-Yin Chen, the organization is still trying to sign another starter. Marcell Ozuna could be traded for a top of the rotation starter, but it appears the Marlins are content with Ozuna as their starting center fielder.

Miami is not the only club interested in Arroyo, who almost certainly would prove to be a necessary veteran presence in a relatively young clubhouse.

Whereas some of the other starters the Marlins have been considering are seeking more extensive deals, Arroyo might accept a one or two-year contract and is not in a position to request a $22 million pact, which is what Doug Fister is reportedly hoping to to receive.

Arroyo, 38, has been plagued by elbow injuries and last pitched for the Diamondbacks in 2014. Over 86.0 innings with Arizona, he pitched to a 4.08 ERA and 4.32 FIP.

Arroyo has logged at least 200.0 innings eight times in his career, and when healthy, can be an effective middle of the rotation starter. The Marlins' interest makes sense since the club wants an affordable and experienced starting arm.

Why this rumor does not make sense

While Arroyo brings a notable amount of experience, the Marlins might just be better off relying on one of their younger arms if Arroyo is the main starter they are considering.

Justin Nicolino, Adam Conley, Jose Urena, David Phelps, Edwin Jackson and Brad Hand could all ultimately compete for the final spot in the rotation. The Marlins want to add another arm, but signing Arroyo could be a risk. If he gets hurt, the club would end up turning to on of its young starters anyway.

Arroyo is not the only free agent starter the Marlins have been linked to. Fister, Tim Lincecum, Kyle Lohse and Alfredo Simon are also being considered.

Arroyo is a bounce back candidate, but given the potential alternatives, he might not be worth the risk.

Likeliness overall: 4/10

If the Marlins add another starter, the chances of it being Arroyo are probably very slim.