The Marlins need a closer. They were intent on signing one of the big 3, free agent closing pitchers this off-season. Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen, and Mark Melancon. They were going to do anything to get one.

Aroldis Chapman: 5 year, $86 million deal with the Yankees.

Kenley Jansen: 5 year, $80 million deal to stay in LA with the Dodgers.

Mark Melancon: 4 year, $62 million deal with the Giants.

It’s not very often you see 3 elite closers hit the open market at the same time. It was clear the Marlins were going to have to pay up to strengthen the back end of the pen, and they missed.

The prior record contract for a closer was given to Jonathan Papelbon before 2012. He got 4 years, $50 million. That was shattered. I doubt we see it topped for awhile now.

The Marlins have made one massive move so far to bring in a star pitcher…

Jeff Locke: 1 year, About $3 million with the Marlins. That should pack the place. Go Fish.