Marlins unlikely to part with draft pick to sign Jansen

Miami wants to upgrade the back end of its bullpen, and Kenley Jansen could be an option. But because the Marlins would have to part with a draft pick, signing Jansen might be unrealistic, according to MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro.

The thought of landing Jansen is likely tempting for the Marlins because he pitched under Don Mattingly in Los Angeles. He would also give Miami a valuable closing option to compliment A.J. Ramos and Kyle Barraclough.

Jansen, 29, had an effective season with the Dodgers, pitching to a 1.83 ERA and 1.44 FIP over 68.2 innings. He also saved 47 contests, the most in his career.

The Dodgers gave Jansen a qualifying offer, which he ultimately rejected. As a result, the team that signs Jansen would be forced to sacrifice a draft pick. As Frisaro points out, if the Marlins were to sign Jansen, they would be forced to part with the 14th overall pick next season. For a team with limited minor league depth, that might not be ideal.

Miami had a fairly consistent bullpen in 2016, but given the few established starting pitching options available, the Marlins might focus on adding to their bullpen instead of signing an inconsistent starter.

Aroldis Chapman might not be affordable, though Jansen could also command an extensive deal. Still, Jansen could be a more plausible option, and the Marlins could consider starting pitching options first.