Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald spoke with Marlins President of Baseball Operations Larry Beinfest on Wednesday afternoon, and a range of topics were discussed. Among the talking points, Beinfest addressed the possibility of a waiver deal:
"It's tight out there," said Beinfest. "The waivers are winding down. If you're going to get somebody, you're going to need to do it this weekend, basically. We're always looking. If there's something out there interesting in terms of adding depth, or adding experience, or an upgrade, then of course we'll look at it. But it's pretty tight out there this time of year, just in terms of maneuverability — players that are eligible, willingness of other teams to give up their players, and also whether the player fits financially. It's not as easy as it was a month ago when you didn't need waivers."
We've done our best this month to track the players who have cleared waivers. Remember the deadline to make such a transaction is September 1.
Beinfest also made quick mention of the possibility of long-term contract negotiations with pitchers Josh Johnson and Ricky Nolasco. The Marlins have, in the past, dealt most of their young, talented hurlers.
"I don't think anything has really changed as far as long term (contracts to pitchers)," said Beinfest. "We've always been open. It's not something we've ever ruled out, and we'll go case by case. I think there is some recognition by the organization that pitchers can be risky because they do get hurt, maybe at a higher rate than a position player. But that doesn't mean necessarily we would rule out."
