Earlier today, Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest gave his end-of-season address in which he said that he never felt that his club was playoff-caliber this year. Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald has the goods..
- This winter, the Fish hope to improve their bullpen. Beinfest hopes to strike a better balance between lefty and righty arms as he upgrades the quality and depth of the team's relievers. Florida's 'pen turned in a 4.04 ERA this season, 18th in the majors. The Marlins could certainly use someone like Rafael Soriano of the Rays but his expected salary demands will likely be too rich for their blood.
- Meanwhile, Florida wants to name their next manager and solidify their coaching staff as soon as possible. According to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro, Beinfest told reporters that the club has a short list of about four or five managers. The Marlins have not yet asked clubs for permission to speak to prospective candidates. A few weeks ago we heard that Bobby Valentine was still in the mix though some reports say that doesn't seem to be the case. The only coach who is certain to return is Randy St. Claire as he is under contract for 2011 and will return.
- Beinfest told reporters that the club did not make the strides defensively that he had hoped they would. The president of baseball operations wondered aloud if the team would have to make acquisitions to improve their fielding.
