MarlinsNation

According to FloridaMarlins.com, the ball club and representatives for Jacque Jones are deep into negotiations to bring the outfielder to Florida. (Good call, Nolesmarlins)

The Marlins do lack a leadoff hitter. Well, a conventional leadoff hitter as they are obsessed with turning Hanley Ramirez into a run producer, hitting him 3rd (that is a debate for another time). They currently are platooning Cody Ross and Alfredo Amezaga and while both provide solid defense, their offense from the #1 spot is hardly consistent enough for the Marlins offensive needs.

The forgotten man in all of this seems to be Brett Carroll, recently called up from AAA Alburquerque. He was showing tremendous power in the minors, but just can’t seem to get any playing time despite being able to play all three outfield spots. Fredi Gonzalez has seemed to be unwilling to play him at all.

In Jones, the Marlins are getting a player they have longed prized. Jones was being looked at back when he came up with the Twins but as recently as 2006 and 2007, the Marlins were exploring a deal with the Cubs for Jones – who was playing in Wrigley at the time. Jones can play all three outfield positions and would be a candidate to fill that lead off role that the Marlins are looking for. The 33 year old also has some pop as he has hit over 20 HRs four times in his career.

By the way, is it a tell-tale sign that when you look at Jones’ stats they are found on the Marlins website? Stay tuned as a deal seems imminent. Join in the discussion.