3 moves the Miami Marlins could make to contend in 2022

3. Sign/Trade for a Closer

The first move that the Miami Marlins could make to contend in 2022 is to add another piece to what is an already strong bullpen, in particular an experienced closer.

Now yes, Miami already has a few internal options who could close games in 2022 such as Dylan Floro and Anthony Bender, as well as a potential dark horse option such as No. 3 prospect Max Meyer. While those three would be strong options, there are two external options that currently stick-out however, both of which you could argue are available for Miami.

The first of those two is three-time All-Star Kenley Jansen, the top free agent reliever currently available on the market. Coming off arguably his best season in recent years (2.22 ERA w/ 38 saves in 2021), the 34-year-old right-hander has spent every year of his 12-year career with the Dodgers, and while there is a possibility Jansen pitches somewhere other than Los Angeles in 2022, the Dodgers seem like the favorite to bring him back.

While there are also other intriguing options via free agency such as Richard Rodriguez and former Marlin Brad Hand, trading for a closer is also a potential option with Craig Kimbrel as the biggest name that could be available. However, while there have been rumors this offseason that the eight-time All-Star could be available, it’s unknown if the White Sox would even consider trading the veteran right-hander.

The Marlins two primary leaders in saves in 2021 (Floro and Yimi Garcia with 15 each) both entered the year having no real previous closing experience. While either of Jansen or Kimbrel would be a phenomenal addition to Miami’s bullpen, acquiring an experienced closer for the late-innings in general would help strengthen an already strong bullpen.