Nationals pick up Gonzalez’s option, Rodney set to become free agent

Cross Gio Gonzalez off the list of potential starting pitchers the Marlins can pursue this offseason. The Nationals picked up Gonzalez’s $12 million option Thursday, according to Today’s Knuckleball’s Jon Heyman.

Because of his Florida background, Gonzalez seemed to make sense for the Marlins. He would have also proven to be a consistent front-end of the rotation arm in the absence of Jose Fernandez.

Though he had his worst season since 2009, Gonzalez still pitched to a 4.57 ERA and 3.76 FIP over 177.1 innings with the Nationals. While he is making $12 million, Gonzalez is likely a better option over some of the starters in this winter’s free agent class.

Marlins decline Rodney’s option

Fernando Rodney won’t be on Miami’s roster in 2016. The Marlins won’t exercise his option for next season, according to Heyman:

Now, the Marlins will likely be forced to depend on Kyle Barraclough and A.J. Ramos in the back end of the bullpen,