Indians sign Carlos Marmol to minor league deal

The Indians have agreed to terms on a minor-league contract with right-hander Carlos Marmol, according to a report from our own Chris Cotillo. The deal, which does not include an opt-out clause, was first reported as "in the works" by FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal.

Throughout the spring, Marmol showed off a new arm slot and was throwing in the mid 90s for scouts in the Dominican Republic.

It seems like forever ago that Marmol posted back to back 30-plus save seasons in 2010 and 2011. Since then, Marmol has had a tough time finding a new home. He pitched in 15 games in 2014 for the Miami Marlins, posting an 8.10 ERA before being released.

Marmol has never had trouble throwing hard and has been a strikeout guy, averaging 11.6 K/9 during his career. Even during his Chicago days, Marmol's command has always plagued him, proven by his career 6.2 BB/9 ratio.

The Indians pitching has been the biggest reason behind the team's 10-17 start. Reigning Cy-Young winner Corey Kluber is 0-5 with a 5.04 ERA.

Despite rotation questions, there were more concerns in the bullpen. Cody Allen has struggled in the closer role, with four  saves in 11 games with a 9.00 ERA. It doesn't get much better going down the roster, with Nick Hagadone, Scott Atchison and Marc Rzepczynski all sporting ERA's over four during the early part of the season.

Marmol provides the Indians a low-risk, high-reward signing that could help level off a bullpen that is rocking. Marmol has proven to be a MLB caliber arm. At age 32, Marmol should have enough left in the tank to help a big-league team. After spending some time in Triple-A, it wouldn't be surprising to see Marmol join the Indians big league club and attempt to help turn the bullpen around.