Miami Marlins looking at Michael Morse, Justin Morneau

Hoping to make an upgrade at first base with a power bat, the Miami Marlins have reportedly turned their attention to free agent Michael Morse or a potential trade to acquire Justin Morneau from the Colorado Rockies. MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro notes that Pittsburgh’s Pedro Alvarez does not appear to be an option the club is considering.

Miami has made no secret that they want to upgrade the production they received at first base, either replacing Garret Jones or finding a suitable player to platoon with him. Finding someone who could slide into the middle of the lineup, offering some protection for Giancarlo Stantonaa, would be ideal.

Morse is coming off a strong year with the San Francisco Giants, despite missing the final month of the season to injury. In 482 plate appearances he hit .279/.336/.475 with 16 home runs and 32 doubles. The right-handed hitter had signed a one year deal with the Giants last offseason. The club is believed to have some interest in bringing him back, but to date there have been few rumblings suggesting that the sides have held any discussions about a new deal.

Morneaua might be a trickier acquisition, as it’s unclear how open to moving him the Rockies are at present. The left-handed hitter batted .319/.364/.496 this past season, adding 32 doubles and 17 home runs while winning the National League batting title. The veteran is under contract for next season at a reasonable $6.75 million, with a mutual option for 2016 at $9 million (or a $750,000 buyout).

Morse will be 33 in March. Morneau turns 34 in May.