All eyes on Kyle Barraclough after Carter Capps injury

Last summer, the Marlins traded a current closer for a reliever they thought could become their future closer.

In the deal that sent Steve Cishek to the Cardinals, Miami added right-hander Kyle Barraclough. At the time, Barraclough was closing in Double-A. He ended the regular season pitching out of the Marlins' bullpen.

Barraclough, 25, is not going to step in as the Marlins' closer. However, now that the club is without Carter Capps, who underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery Tuesday, he might be forced to take on a bigger role.

Over 20.1 innings with the Marlins last season, Barraclough pitched to a 2.59 ERA and 3.42 FIP. He opened the season in Single-A but was eventually promoted to St. Louis' Double-A affiliate.

Barraclough saved 14 minor league games last season and likely has the ability to be a durable arm in the back of the bullpen. With a productive spring, he might be able to win a setup job.

Now that Capps is out for the season, the Marlins are no longer in a position to hold a competition for the closing job. A.J. Ramos, who has been out with a calf injury, will likely remain the club's closer.

Miami does not have a notable amount of bullpen depth, though. Mike Dunn and Bryan Morris are also setup candidates, with David Phelps, Brad Hand, Edwin Jackson, Chris Narveson and Dustin McGowan all candidates to compete for jobs.

Barraclough was not guaranteed a roster spot and he still isn't. However, if he has success, he should have a good chance of earning a roster spot.

Once the Marlins first learned of Capps' injury, they reportedly started to consider trade options. The organization could pursue relief help via a trade, but considering its lack of depth, that might not prove to be the best option.

Barraclough's success is key for the Marlins. Without one power arm in their bullpen, there could be some pressure on him to develop quickly.