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The Marlins didn’t appear to be interested in free agent Edwin Encarnacion, who signed with the Indians on Thursday, but the club could consider other power-hitting alternatives next offseason.
If Miami wants to add a big name bat next winter, Eric Hosmer and Manny Machado could be possibilities, according to MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro.
Entering 2017, the Marlins seem content with Justin Bour receiving the most starting time at first base. Though he is expected to be healthy, Bour was sidelined with an ankle injury last season, exposing Miami’s lack of first base depth. The Marlins are likely considering platoon options for Bour, and Mike Napoli could emerge as an option.
Miami’s approach to next offseason is dependent on the team’s performance in 2017, but the possibility of adding another power bat might be intriguing. Machado is a three-time All-Star, and Hosmer had a dominant 2016 season with the Royals.
With Giancarlo Stanton in the lineup, the addition of another top bat could give Miami one of the better offenses in the National League. However, the organization’s long-term goals might not be revealed until the non-waiver trade deadline, at the earliest.