I guess that even when you’re as stingy with money as the Florida Marlins, sometimes it’s worth it if your fan base is like 97% Hispanic.
The Marlins apparently are giving free agent Cuban left-hander Aroldis Chapman something to think about. According to an American League source following the situation, the Marlins are “still in the game” and are believed to have increased their initial $13 million offer in hopes of landing the hard-throwing Chapman.
Chapman told one associate he expects to sign within the next three or four days. If the Marlins do somehow lure Chapman, it probably won’t be with the most lucrative deal. They’re counting on Chapman’s comfort level in South Florida bridging the gap.
Chapman is definitely going to get better offers than the $13 million to Marlins are showing him, but there’s something to be said about comfort and being close to home. And if Chapman does sign with the Marlins, they’re all of a sudden a much more dangerous team. Ironically, it was starting pitching that was the Marlins’ major weakness last year, but Chapman would do wonders for the rotation, ensuring that guys who aren’t quite ready – like Andrew Miller and Rick Vandenhurk – don’t have to get tossed out there every fifth day.
Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, Chris Volstad, Sean West, and Aroldis Chapman? They won’t be better than the Phillies, but the Wild Card would definitely be in sight.
Now that my hopes are up (oh yeah, I’m a Marlins fan), I’m sure he’ll sign with the Braves for abot $21 million. Poop.
