Closer Carlos Marmol doesn't appear long for the Cubs and is likely to start the season elsewhere, writes Bruce Levine of ESPNChicago.com. League sources say that several teams, including the Tigers, are taking a hard look at the reliever. Earlier today we learned that Detroit is actively trying to deal for a closer amidst concerns about rookie Bruce Rondon.
Marmol will earn nearly $10MM in the final year of his deal and can veto a trade to four West Coast clubs. One source says that Marmol would most likely waive that clause if it meant that he would be going to a contender.
Levine writes that the Cubs don't feel pressure to move Marmol but they would likely part with him for young pitching. Offseason acquisition Kyuji Fujikawa would step in as closer if Marmol is shipped elsewhere.
Recently, General Manager Jed Hoyer publicly asserted that Marmol would be the team's closer heading into this season. The Cubs nearly shipped the 30-year-old to the Angels in November for starter Dan Haren.
