Marlins Will Make Rotation The “Top Priority”

The Marlins are expected to pursue several players in what could be a very busy offseason, and Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports (Twitter link) says the team's "top priority" is starting pitching.  The Fish want to acquire two starters to join Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco and Anibal Sanchez in the rotation.  Miami believes Javier Vazquez will retire, though Rosenthal reported earlier today that there was a "50-50" chance Vazquez could pitch in 2012.

With the Marlins prepared to raise payroll, there's no shortage of pitching options out there if the Fish want to (pardon the pun) make a big splash for their first season in their new ballpark.  Miami could sign a top free agent arm like C.J. Wilson or Edwin Jackson, or the Marlins could try to acquire a starter in a trade.  We've already heard James Shields' name connected to Miami, but since the Rays appear intent on keeping Shields, that particular move could be a non-starter.

Chris Volstad is an internal option, and while he hasn't performed spectacularly in his first four big league seasons, he eats innings and is still just 25 years old.  Volstad will be eligible for arbitration for the first time this winter and projects to earn roughly $2.6MM.  While it's a cheap enough price for the club to tender him a contract, Volstad may be seen as roster depth at best for next year's Marlins if their offseason plans come to fruition.