It was reported yesterday afternoon that the Miami Marlins
were nearing an agreement with free agent right-hander Jose Valverde on a
one-year contract. This report proved premature, but the former Detroit Tigers’
closer is negotiating with the Marlins, as well as other teams, according to
Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.
jose valverde is talking to a few teams, including the #marlins. no deal seems imminent.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) February 4, 2013
Valverde spent the past three seasons as the Tigers’ closer.
After a solid opening campaign in 2010, Valverde converted all 49 of his save
opportunities during the 2011 regular season, earning him a trip to the
All-Star game and consideration for the American League Cy Young Award.
Unfortunately for Valverde, he was unable to keep up this
level of production last year. He finished the 2012 season with a 3.78 ERA and
ultimately lost his role as the team’s closer in the playoffs. Detroit elected
not to re-sign Valverde, and he hit the free agent market following the season.
At this point, the Marlins have internal candidates,
including Steve Cishek and Ryan Webb, to close next season. They could instead
opt to add a more experienced presence in Valverde.
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