Marlins interested in signing Rafael Soriano

The Marlins have interest in signing free agent closer Rafael Soriano in response to Steve Cishek's recent struggles, according to a report from MLB.com's Joe Frisaro. Though the team has had dialogue with Soriano and remains interested in signing him, Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald reports that "no deal is close" between the sides at the moment.

Soriano, 35, is reportedly getting closer to signing after a long offseason that saw him go unsigned despite being one of the top late-inning relief options on the open market. The Twins and Mariners have been linked to him throughout the early part of the season with the Blue Jays, Dodgers and Tigers also considered options, though the Marlins' increased interest and willingness to spend on late-inning relief may lead to a deal coming together quickly between Miami and Soriano.

Miami looked into late-inning options during spring training, making an offer to Brewers' closer Francisco Rodriguez before he re-signed with Milwaukee and having dialogue with clubs about potential deals to enhance their relief corps before the season. Frisaro speculates that the team could look to acquire Rodriguez from the struggling Brewers or potentially talk to the Phillies about a deal for Jonathan Papelbon, who has also drawn interest from the Blue Jays in recent months.

Cishek, 28, has struggled mightily this season, posting a 10.32 ERA in 11.1 innings while blowing four of his seven save opportunities. Miami has blown eight saves as a club, good for the worst number in the majors, leading for the increased urgency in adding a late-inning arm who will provide stability at the end of close ballgames for the team.