Miami Marlins designate Bryan Morris, who could be re-signed

Miami designated Bryan Morris for assignment Tuesday but is open to having him return next season, according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald.

But his agent, Jim Kuzmich, said Marlins executive Michael Hill “asked us to keep them in mind” when he chooses a new team in the coming months, if he’s not claimed off waivers in the next two days.

Morris was reinstated from the disabled list after being sidelined following back surgery. The Marlins opted to designate him because they wanted the spot on the 40-man roster, according to Jackson.

Teams now have an opportunity to claim Morris, who could finish the season in Miami’s minor league system and then become a free agent this offseason.

Morris has had success in three seasons with the Marlins and pitched to a 3.06 ERA over 17.2 innings this season before undergoing surgery. The Marlins acquired Morris from the Pirates in 2014, and he subsequently pitched to a 3.14 ERA over 63.0 innings.

Though the Marlins traded Carter Capps in advance of the non-waiver trade deadline, it’s unlikely the club will re-sign Morris. While Morris has pitched well, the Marlins have A.J. Ramos, Fernando Rodney and Kyle Barraclough at the back end of the bullpen.

The Marlins could consider signing Morris this winter if they are interested in adding bullpen depth, though the club almost certainly will prioritize starting pitching.