Grading Miami Marlins' 2015-16 Offseason So Far

After a disappointing 2015 season, the Miami Marlins have had a fairly quiet offseason, making few moves outside of the traditional signing of minor league free agents, only one or two of which actually got anybody’s attention. However, a lack of moves doesn’t necessarily mean a poor offseason. Despite a lack of activity for much of the winter, the Marlins had a solid and productive offseason.

The biggest moves the Marlins made this offseason involved their pitching staff, with the best one being the free agent signing of Wei-Yin Chen for $80 million over five years. Miami spent nearly its entire offseason budget to sign Chen, but it was a move that significantly upgrades the team’s rotation and was necessary move to keep up with the pitching-rich teams atop the NL East, the New York Mets and Washington Nationals. Chen gives the Marlins a legitimate No. 2 starter behind Jose Fernandez, allowing the Marlins to fill out their rotation with young, promising pitchers like Jarred Cosart, Justin Nicolino and Adam Conley. These youngsters will have less pressure on them with Fernandez and Chen atop the rotation.

The Marlins also signed two players in Chris Johnson and Edwin Jackson who have seen better days but may have something left in the tank. Johnson is just three years removed from finishing second for the National League batting title. If nothing else, he gives Miami a capable hitter off the bench; he could also take over third base if the Marlins need to move Martin Prado to a new position in case of injury.

Meanwhile, Jackson didn’t cost much to sign and gives Miami’s rotation some depth in case youngsters like Nicolino or Conley struggle. Jackson could also move into the bullpen and become a helpful setup man in front of closer A.J. Ramos and primary setup man Carter Capps, potentially giving the Marlins a strong and reliable contingent of late-inning relievers.

Part of Miami’s offseason also revolved around keeping players. The team signed second baseman Dee Gordon to a long-term deal, ensuring his presence at the top of their order for years to come after his breakout season in 2015. The Marlins also decided to retain center fielder Marcell Ozuna after much talk that he would be traded this offseason. The wise decision not to trade Ozuna keeps Miami’s young and talented outfield intact, as the trio of Ozuna, Christian Yellich and Giancarlo Stanton has great upside.

Although the Marlins didn’t make many moves this offseason, they also didn’t make any moves that will hurt them in 2016. The simple act of keeping Ozuna potentially gives them one of the best outfields in the National League, while the additions of Chen and Jackson will help Miami’s rotation and bullpen, respectively. With plenty of young and promising talent, the Marlins didn’t have to do much this winter, and what they did should help.

Grade: B+