MLB Rumors: Marlins to be “aggressive, early” buyers?

May 26, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Miami Marlins relief pitcher Steve Cishek (31) throws against the Washington Nationals during the ninth inning at Nationals Park. The Marlins won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Despite losing Jose Fernandez for the rest of the season and posting a 8-10 record without their ace, the Miami Marlins currently sit just two games behind the division leading Atlanta Braves. For that reason, Fox Sports’ Ken Rosenthal hears that the Marlins front office still views themselves as contenders (video link).

Rosenthal states that the Marlins front office is confident that their starting pitching depth in the minor leagues, including Andrew Heaney, is strong enough to fill the voids at the major league level. He however states that the Marlins bullpen needs as much help as possible.

With the potential loss of Carter Capps, who is heading to see Dr. James Andrews, the Marlins bullpen takes another major hit. Rosenthal feels the Marlins will be in the market for a veteran set-up man to slot in front of closer Steve Cishek.

Rosenthal mentions that the Marlins history shows that they could make a major splash well before July’s trading deadline, to help bolster their roster to continue to stay in any potential playoff race.

The Rosenthal report coincides with what Jon Heyman said a need for the Marlins would be in July on Twitter:

The Marlins bullpen ranks 20th in baseball with a 0.3 WAR and a 4.08 xFIP. Their 0.3 WAR is even more gloomy when you consider that closer Steve Cishek has been one of the primer relievers in the game, posting a 1.0 WAR, placing him tied third among relievers.

Marlins fans have felt anxiety each and every time the Marlins have to hand the ball from their starter to a reliever not named Cishek or Capps.