Miami

Marlins Sign Wei-Yin Chen

The Marlins have signed free-agent pitcher Wei-Yin Chen to a multi-year deal

The Miami Marlins have agreed to a terms with starting pitcher Wei-Yin Chen on a five-year deal.

The contract includes a sixth-year option which can vest during Chen's time in Miami. Chen will earn $80 million during the guaranteed years, according to a report which was not confirmed by the team.

Chen gives the Marlins something they desperately needed, a reliable arm to throw the day after Jose Fernandez. Miami was set to enter 2016 with its ace and series of questions behind Fernandez. Chen is a veteran lefty who has enjoyed success in the tough American League East.

During Chen's time with the Baltimore Orioles, he has amassed a 46-32 record to go along with a 3.72 E.R.A. Changing leagues often benefits a pitch, and in this case Chen will also move into a more pitcher friendly ballpark. Even with its rumored new dimensions, Marlins Park should still prove to be a safe haven for arms.

Facing budgetary constraints, Miami was forced to sit and watch names such as David Price and Johnny Cueto come off the board. Without a new local television deal, the Marlins have had difficulty competing financially with some other clubs. This has led to the team relying on projects and players looking to revitalize their careers at a lower cost.

Miami has recently agreed to an extension with Dee Gordon and also came to terms with Edwin Jackson and Chris Johnson on one-year deals. The Marlins may still seek more in the free-agent market including a starting pitcher.

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