Alex Rodriguez could be set to join the Miami Marlins once he clears waivers.
After the New York Yankees released Alex Rodriguez on Friday, nobody expected that A-Rod would play in another MLB game. Between the baggage that comes with him and his declining skills, it was hard to see a great fit for A-Rod. However, thanks to an injury to Giancarlo Stanton that will keep him out for the rest of the season, there is a roster spot open on the Marlins. The Marlins are expected to sign A-Rod once he clears waivers.
So @JimBowden_ESPN says A-Rod will join the Marlins when he clears waivers. A-Rod and Barry Bonds together. Oh my.
— Jeff Blair (@SNJeffBlair) August 15, 2016
The Marlins are also reportedly looking at the recently released Carlos Gomez, formerly of the Houston Astros. However, Gomez carries a lot of baggage with him and he has struggled as badly as A-Rod. His off the field issues don’t make him any more attractive than A-Rod.
Rodriguez makes sense for the Marlins. They need to add a veteran bat to help make up for the loss of Stanton. While Rodriguez can’t play in the outfield, he can still play third base and first base. Rodriguez would also get to help mentor the Marlins’ young players, something that he deeply enjoyed doing in recent years with the Yankees.
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The Marlins also make sense for Rodriguez. A-Rod lives very close to Miami, meaning that he could return home and take care of his family while still playing baseball. Rodriguez is very close to the Miami community and has even donated a lot of money to help the University of Miami.
A-Rod would likely come at a very cheap price – the major league minimum. If he doesn’t help out, the Marlins can easily let him go. While he was too expensive in New York, A-Rod is a hero in Miami and would likely be welcomed there. It benefits both parties if A-Rod joins the Marlins.