Miami Marlins notes: new player, interesting free agent

The farm system has improved for the Miami Marlins and there are new core hitters breaking out. The season may not have worked out as expected, but there's genuine optimism for next season. There's hope with the farm and the team in general having a better roster. In the meantime, The Fish continue to tinker with this year's roster.

The Miami Marlins claimed a player from the San Diego Padres.

RHP Lake Bachar is the player that the Miami Marlins have claimed from the San Diego Padres. Bachar was recently designated for assignment by San Diego. The 29 year old has actually never pitched in the Major Leagues before, which is a bit alarming. At his age he would have to be a late bloomer at this point.

How did he do in the Minor Leagues? Is there any promise of him making an impact if he ends up getting called up to The Fish's Major League roster? I should mention that he's going to be added to the team's 40-man roster by the way. In AAA for San Diego this season, he pitched to a 3.89 ERA with 10.7 K/9 and 4.0 BB/9 in 46 games (one start) and 71.2 innings pitched. The strikeout rate looks good, but the control is clearly below average. He appears to have been claimed for bullpen depth.

I wonder if it doesn't make sense for the Miami Marlins to target St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt in free agency this season. Goldschmidt is having a down season, batting .244/.302/.410, with 20 home runs and 55 RBI in 131 games and 517 AB. The soon to be 37 year old is likely in decline, but it also means that St. Louis is unlikely to offer him a Qualifying Offer.

Goldschmidt may be looking for a one year deal as a result of the season. This means that The Fish could potentially get him at a bargain price. Remember, he's a career .289/.382/.511 hitter who may be able to have one last good season. He can help with a playoff push in 2025 or be a trade candidate at next season's Trade Deadline. He looks to be a decent off-season target for the Miami Marlins.