Miami is among the teams showing “strong interest” in international free agent Yuliesky Gurriel, according to FanRag Sports’ Jon Heyman.
The Marlins have reportedly held a workout with Gurriel, who is also drawing interest from the Giants, Mets, Dodgers, Yankees and Astros.
Although they appear to be one of the clubs most interested in Gurriel, the Marlins might not be in the best financial position to sign him. Gurriel, according to Heyman, is seeking a four-year deal worth about $10 to $12 million per season. He could receive a three or four-year pact worth close to $50 million, depending on the number of teams interested.
While he could prove to be a valuable addition to Miami’s lineup, Gurriel, 32, is not a long-term option. He is a natural third baseman, but the Marlins have Martin Prado producing routinely at third, and he has experience at second base and in left field.
It’s unlikely the Marlins are considering Gurriel as an outfielder, since Christian Yelich is having a productive season and the organization believes it has the best outfield in baseball.
Heyman projects it would take Gurriel a month in the minors before he is ready to join a major league roster, which presents an interesting possibility for the Marlins.
If Miami is truly interested in adding Gurriel, signing the Cuban infielder could allow the Marlins to move either Dee Gordon or Derek Dietrich in exchange for a controllable starting pitcher. Gordon is due back from his PED suspension on July 29, and Dietrich has played well in his absence.
Miami would have to find a place for Gurriel to play, which could lead the club to trade Martin Prado, who it reportedly likes in the clubhouse but is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.
The Marlins will likely get outbid for Gurriel, but their interest in one of the top international free agents is notable.