The Marlins are going bullpen bonkers.
Within days of signing relievers Derrick Turnbow and Jose Veras to minor-league deals with big-league invites to spring training, the club continued to beef up the pen by agreeing to terms with Seth McClung on a minor-league deal.
The Marlins also signed veteran right-handed reliever Scott Strickland to a minor-league deal. Strickland has not pitched in the majors since 2005.
On top of all that, the Marlins continue to talk to Kevin Gregg about returning to the club after spending last season with the Chicago Cubs. The Marlins have discussed contract parameters with Gregg, who is also in talks with the Colorado Rockies.
While the Marlins would use Gregg as a late-inning setup man if he is signed, he would give them an insurance policy if Leo Nunez doesn't work out in the closer's role. That might make the Marlins more attractive to Gregg than the Rockies, who are set at closer with Huston Street and have Rafael Betancourt in line as a backup option.
One interesting note that won't exactly put Marlins fans at ease: Gregg and Nunez led all National League relievers in home runs allowed last season: 13.
Like Turnbow and Veras, McClung is also being invited to big-league spring training. McClung made 42 appearances -- 40 in relief -- last season for the Brewers, going 3-3 with a 4.94 ERA. In 62 innings, he struck out 40 and walked 39.
Kevin Gregg ?????? ARE YOU F....NG SERIOUS ???? SOMEBODY SHOOT ME PLEASE !!!!
Posted by: AMIR9947 | February 02, 2010 at 07:01 AM
With the proper pitching coach, I know he can do the job. Problem is the way he was used, too many innings,not enough rest. Should be a one two punch, REMEMBER THAT NUNEZ got burned a lot more than Gregg did last year.
At least EL CHEAPO owner is doing something. Great job Larry, what would the Marlins do without you.....
Go Fish
Posted by: HENRY | February 02, 2010 at 08:36 AM
The biggest issue with Gregg 2 years ago is he didn't tell the coaching staff he was hurt and they kept sending him out there. He'll do fine again with the Marlins because I think he learned his lesson.
Posted by: Brent Caulder | February 02, 2010 at 09:23 AM
i really like these moves in the pen by the marlins...a couple of them will stick with the big club and the rest will provide depth at AAA level
Go Marlins!
Posted by: James | February 02, 2010 at 10:58 AM
What about Bob Gibson and Whitey Ford??
Aren't they available too??
Posted by: tim gaffney | February 02, 2010 at 06:04 PM