Marlins likely passed on Joe Beimel because of health concerns

Miami could have passed on lefty Joe Beimel due to concerns about his health, according to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.

After designating veteran Craig Breslow for assignment in early May, the Marlins were one of only a few clubs to not have a left-handed reliever in the bullpen.

It appeared that would change quickly, though. A day after parting with Breslow, the Marlins announced they had signed Beimel to a minor league contract.

It's unclear whether or not Beimel underwent and subse quently didn't pass a physical. But it appears the Marlins decided to pass on the lefty reliever because of his health situation.

After learning of the report from Andrews, the Marlins could have discussed officially adding Beimel. The Marlins don't have a left-handed reliever in their bullpen, but to this point, the unit has had a fair amount of success.

Miami's relief unit has pitched to a 3.37 ERA, which ranks ninth in baseball.

Manager Don Mattingly has used Miami's relievers in different roles, and they have responded to this point. The Marlins' bullpen boasts several versatile arms, with Dustin McGowan and Edwin Jackson, for instance, both able to pitch in a long relief role and late in games.

Since the National League East features several prominent left-handed bats--Bryce Harper most notably--the Marlins could pursue a left-handed relief option in the coming days. However, unless the bullpen routinely struggles to get left-handed hitters out, that might not be realistic.

The Marlins' decision to pass on Beimel could prove to be beneficial, especially if he joins another club and is sidelined in the process.

Beimel, 39, had a fair amount of success pitching out of the Mariners bullpen between 2014 and 2015. Over 92.1 combined innings, he pitched to a 3.12 ERA.

There still doesn't appear to be a clear timetable for the return of reliever Mike Dunn, who opened the season on the disabled list.