Marlins complete deal for OF Corey Dickerson

The Miami Marlins have finalized the deal for free-agent outfielder Corey Dickerson, according to multiple sources.

The Marlins have a new left fielder as of this morning. News from various sources, including MLB.com, is that outfielder Corey Dickerson and the front office have finalized a two-year deal for Dickerson, who spent time last season in both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. The move gives the coaching staff another bat in the middle of their lineup with home run power.

“The move was expected, since news broke that the 30-year-old had reached an agreement with Miami on Dec. 30,” Joe Frisaro writes.“MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reports the two-year contract is for $17.5 million.”

With Dickerson in left field and presumably Brian Anderson the team’s Opening Day right fielder, the decision who starts in centerfield should be one of the more hotly contested battles in camp and Spring Training starting next month.

Dickerson was added to the roster after the team made a push to add him or Yasiel Puig to the roster. When discussions with the former Cleveland and Los Angeles Dodgers star broke down, Dickerson became the team’s top priority.

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Because the Marlins’ 40-man roster was full, the front office announced right-handed reliever Austin Brice has been designated for assignment. The Marlins figure to make one more move once the team completes the deal for veteran catcher Francisco Cervelli.

The front office may still look to make moves in free agency, prior to the start of Spring Training to add another outfielder or to bring in a veteran arm for the bullpen. Miami could also make a few more moves considering the depth in the outfield and the potential of minor league prospects potentially challenging for a role on the Opening Day roster.

“The addition of Dickerson is a significant one for the Marlins, as the left-handed hitter projects to be the regular left fielder as well as a middle-of-the-order presence,” Frisaro added.“Dickerson split time last season with the Pirates and Phillies, posting a slash line of .304/.341/.565 with 12 home runs and 59 RBIs in 78 games. Dickerson had a wRC+ of 127 (MLB average is 100).”

One thing the team may still have concerns over is Dickerson’s health, which was limited in 2019. One of the reasons it was believed the team did not pursue him harder at the beginning of Hot Stove was the time he spent away from the game last season.