The Miami Marlins have had internal talks about Alex Rodriguez, according to a report by Jon Heyman of Today's Knuckleball.
Rodriguez is set to become a free agent after Friday's New York Yankees game. The terms of the release allow Rodriguez to seek employment with another franchise. Despite the fact Rodriguez has a developmental position lined up with New York, he can play for another team if he wishes to do so.
If the Marlins were to sign Rodriguez, they would only need to pay him a pro-rated portion of the major league minimum. The remainder of his contract is being for by New York. Even at his advanced age, Rodriguez could offer Miami a valuable bat off its bench.
There is also a hometown connection for Rodriguez in Miami. Not only does the veteran still reside in Miami, but he nearly played for the University of Miami. After signing a letter of intent, Rodriguez ended up signing with the Seattle Mariners instead. Rodriguez never played a game at the collegiate level.
This has been a down year for Rodriguez, but he showed he could still be a productive player as recently as last season. Following a year-long suspension from Major League Baseball, Rodriguez was a key reason that the Yankees made the playoffs in 2015. With Miami on the cusp of reaching October itself, Rodriguez could be just what the team needs.
Miami has room on its bench for Rodriguez especially with Justin Bour on the disabled list. While it is unknown how well Rodriguez could play first base, it would be a potential location for him with Bour sidelined. Rodriguez could also provide Miami with a powerful bat off its bench. Despite his poor season, the former All-Star still has the ability to hit a ball out of the park.
There is some history nearing for Rodriguez as well. With only four more home runs, "A-Rod" would reach 700 home runs in his career. This is an exclusive club and would give Miami another significant moment this season. Recently, Rodriguez's former teammate Ichiro Suzuki picked up his 3,000th career hit.
Local
The Marlins will be back in action on Friday while Rodriguez wears the Yankees pinstripes for the final time. Miami will host the Chicago White Sox at 7:10 p.m.
