MLB Free Agency: Miami Marlins had a serious talk with Garrett Jones
By David Miniel
The Miami Marlins have been searching high and low for some infield help and got off to a good start by signing shortstop Rafael Furcal to a one year contract.
Miami has been in some trade rumors that involved Mark Trumbo. Now according to the Miami Herald, the Marlins had a serious discussion with free agent first baseman Garrett Jones.
The 32 year old free agent found his groove with the Pittsburgh Pirates after spending a couple minor league seasons between the Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins. He made his debut for the Twins in 2007 but only played in 31 games.
Jones signed a minor league contract with the Pirates in 2008 and earned an invitation to Spring Training. He failed to make the Opening Day roster but had his contract purchased later on. The hopeful first baseman got his chance at the big leagues once again after the team traded Eric Hinske (now a first base coach for the Chicago Cubs) and the rest is history.
In 82 games with the Pirates that season, Jones hit 21 home runs and 44 RBI’s on a batting line of .293/.372/.338. Since then he’s reached 20 home runs two other times. He’s currently coming off a year where he hit just 15 but that shouldn’t discourage the Marlins.
The great thing about Jones is that he could also play right field.
I think they could be the front runner to land him. If that happens, then expect Logan Morrison to be traded or moved to third base.