Miami Marlins trade rumors: Club seeking left-handed reliever

While the Marlins' focus has been on adding another veteran starting pitcher to their rotation, the club is also seeking a left-handed reliever, according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro.

Why this rumor makes sense

Miami's focus this off-season was upgrading its starting pitching staff and to this point the organization would still like to add another starter. Since adding starting depth was a priority, the Marlins might not have been as aggressive in considering upgrading their bullpen to this point.

Over the last few seasons, the club's bullpen has been predominantly right-handed, making the desire to add another lefty to the mix justifiable. Before Aroldis Chapman was acquired by the Yankees, the Marlins were reportedly among the clubs interested in the left-handed closer.

Since Carter Capps and A.J. Ramos appear set to compete for the closing job this spring, the Marlins might not be in a position to add a left-handed closer. Another power arm to complement Mike Dunn could prove to be beneficial as the season progresses.

Miami signed Randy Choate to a two-year deal in December 2010 but has lacked a lefty specialist since. Dunn has been the primary lefty in the Marlins' bullpen, with Brad Hand receiving playing time as a long reliever.

At this point, the Marlins will likely open the season with Hand and Dunn in the bullpen. After trading Dan Jennings, the Marlins do not have much left-handed relief depth, making the team's interest notable.

Why this rumor does not make sense

Frisaro points out the Marlins are not interested in adding a left-handed specialist, which could end up being one of the things their 2016 roster lacks.

Dunn is known for his velocity but has not proven he can get left-handed hitters out consistently. The same can be said for Hand, who could also compete for the fifth spot in the Marlins' rotation.

If the Marlins do not end up signing a free agent reliever, they could turn to Adam Conley or Justin Nicolino. However, both would likely benefit from additional time to develop in Triple-A.

Miami's bullpen is about set and there are not many non-specialist left-handed relievers on the market.

Tommy Hunter and Tyler Clippard could be considered, but both are right-handed.

Miami could benefit from adding another lefty. But the club might not have the payroll flexibility to do so.

Likeliness overall: 3/10

Unless a veteran lefty is available and not asking for much, Dunn will almost certainly be the go to lefty out of the bullpen in 2016.