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Miami Marlins should consider Craig Kimbrel trade

By David Hill

Oct 12, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) prepares to pitch against the Houston Astros during the eighth inning in game four of the 2021 ALDS at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) prepares to pitch against the Houston Astros during the eighth inning in game four of the 2021 ALDS at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Miami Marlins have been clear that they are ready to emerge from their long rebuild. They are attempting to rebuild their lineup, having added Avisail Garcia to add another powerful bat to the lineup. While they still have plenty of work to do, and could stand another piece or two in the lineup, the Marlins are attempting to make themselves a force to be reckoned with in the NL East.

While there is a good deal of focus on their lineup, the Marlins have other needs as well. Their bullpen is filled with question marks, especially in the ninth inning. Adding a proven closer could make a major difference as they look to return to the postseason.

Craig Kimbrel could be what Miami Marlins need

The problem is that there are not many closers available in free agency. Kenley Jansen would be an option, but plenty of other teams will also be interested in his services. While the same could be said for Craig Kimbrel, he may be a better option for the Marlins at this point.

Time to trade for that big bat. light. More Marlins

There are questions surrounding Kimbrel heading into the 2022 season. He had struggled in 2019 and 2020, although there were reasons as to why that would happen both years. Kimbrel signed late in 2019, and with the pandemic shortened 2020, never seemed to be comfortable in either year.

He looked like his previously dominant self in 2021 before his trade to the White Sox. Kimbrel established himself as the top closer available, posting a 0.49 ERA and a 0.709 WHiP with 23 saves in his 36.2 innings, striking out 64 batters with 13 walks. However, he was unable to perform at the same level with the White Sox, having been moved to the eighth inning.

It will be a gamble for any team to bring Kimbrel on board. At the same time, those struggles will likely lower the White Sox asking price. For a team such as the Marlins, who may otherwise be looking at Dylan Floro as their closer, Kimbrel is a gamble worth taking.

The Marlins made no hitter history. dark. Next

The Miami Marlins need to find help in their bullpen. Acquiring Craig Kimbrel to handle the ninth inning could make a major difference.

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