Marlins Could Adjust Their Attitude Toward Free Agency
Oct 25, 2026 11:31 PM

The Fish can finance some free agent deals in 2026 with a few interesting names

For the past few seasons, the Miami Marlins have focused on developing young core talent through their farm system; however, the organization could have a new attitude this offseason, due to a handful of factors.

As president of baseball operations Peter Bendix and the Miami front office look toward 2027, their postseason ambitions will likely burn in when Major League Baseball's collective bargaining agreement kicks in. While payroll remains a key consideration, bringing in experienced players on sensible deals could help transition Miami from a promising squad into a true National League contender.

Bendix and general manager Gabe Kapler continue to prioritize roster upgrades that align with the franchise’s long-term vision. Following an encouraging 2026 campaign, the main question is whether management is ready to commit more resources to established major league talent.

The again, the philosophy isn't new for the 41-year-old executive. He has been a chameleon of sorts in Miami, something the franchise will rely on in a very tumultuous and evolving time. His ability to change his Coors to fit the situation will serve the team well, especially with the changing economic environment.

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Bendix has always that versatile approach; he even commented as such in 2025, when he talked about reading the tea leaves in terms of transactions.

"I think it's being opportunistic,” the POB said at the time. “We'd like to add some offense. You never have too much pitching. Clichés, but they're true, right? And so I think that the main thing is continuing on this path of giving our young players a chance to show us what they can do, building kind of the foundation of talent.”

Who's on the Shopping List?

Clearly, the team isn't going to go out and hand over a multi-year, $200 million contract to a big basher or high-profile pitcher, but there may be a handful of names the team can make a run at... especially since they will be required to spend more under the expected new salary floor. 

As MLB.com’s Christina De Nicola recently noted, a key off-season query is whether setback outcomes from 2026 free-agent additions will deter future spending. In principle, the front office remains open to spending, with its focus fixed on securing players capable of upgrading existing options and elevating the team's competitive standing.

Key potential targets include:

  • Alec Bohm (3B/1B): Turning 30 in 2027, the Philadelphia Phillies infielder would offer valuable major league experience and offensive stability. Projected in the $13 million to $16 million AAV range, his multi-positional versatility makes him a strong fit for Miami’s lineup.
  • Ryan Jeffers (C): The 30-year-old catcher could enhance the team’s offensive potential behind the plate. The decision to pursue him involves balancing his veteran presence with the development of prospect Joe Mack and the versatility of Agustin Ramirez.
  • Nick Martinez (RHP): If he enters free agency, the 36-year-old right-hander would offer pitching depth as both a starter and swingman, helping manage innings for the young rotation. However, his projected $17.5 million AAV requires deliberate financial planning.
  • Jake Bauers (1B/OF): At 31 years old, Bauers serves as a budget-friendly option to add power at first base or in the outfield without a long-term premium commitment.

Miami can maintain its measured strategy while leveraging free agency more targetedly to address specific roster gaps and preserve prospect pathways. Should the new CBA introduce favorable roster or economic dynamics, the franchise will be well-positioned to capitalize.

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