Marlins rumors: Miami interested in Aroldis Chapman, Mark Melancon

The Marlins want to sign a “big-time closer” and are interested in Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon, according to FanRag Sports’ Jon Heyman.

Though Miami is reportedly still seeking starting pitching help after signing Edinson Volquez to a two-year deal last week, the club is also focused on signing one of the three best closers available.

The Marlins have been linked to Jansen because he pitched under Manager Don Mattingly in Los Angeles. Over 68.2 innings with the Dodgers last season, he pitched to a 1.83 ERA and 1.44 FIP.

Jansen might be the ideal target, but Chapman might be interested in joining the Marlins because he lives in Miami, according to Heyman. Chapman pitched well with the Yankees and Cubs in 2016, posting a 1.01 ERA and 0.82 FIP over 26.2 innings.

The Giants and Nationals seem to be two of the other teams in pursuit of Melancon, who pitched to a 1.64 ERA with the Pirates and Nationals last season.

Miami could still focus on adding another starter, but a veteran closer to complement A.J. Ramos and Kyle Barraclough might make its bullpen among the best in the National League. However, all three available closers will likely receive extensive contracts, which the Marlins are not necessarily in a position to give.

The Marlins seem to be considering building a strong bullpen in the event their starters struggle to pitch deep into games. Still, it’s possible Miami adds another starter and a veteran closer this winter.