Marlins Interested In John Smoltz

The Marlins are interested in recently-designated veteran pitcher John Smoltz, according to Juan C. Rodriguez of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.  Smoltz refused a minor league assignment; the Red Sox will trade or release him soon.  Boston will be on the hook for the vast majority of the money remaining on Smoltz's contract.

The Marlins are currently tied with Smoltz's former team, the Braves, for second place in the NL East.  They're three games out of the wild card.  The Marlins' rotation is 11th in the NL with a 4.67 ERA.  Perhaps Smoltz would be more at home back in his old league and division.  At least a few analysts feel he still has something left to contribute despite an 8.33 ERA in 40 innings this year.

Cardinals GM John Mozeliak said last week he was not interested in Smoltz, "but things can change."  ESPN's Buster Olney named the Rangers as an interested party but admitted Boston might be unwilling to deal with a competitor.