Nelson Not Tendered, Kroenke Picked Up

Marlins continue an offseason that is under the radar and frugal. Pretty much like the rest of us out here at this time of year.

On Friday, the Marlins tendered to 9 of the 10 remaining players that are arbitration eligible. The list includes Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, Dan Uggla, Jeremy Hermida, Jorge Cantu, Cody Ross, Alfredo Amezaga, Logan Kensing and Dallas McPherson.

Reliever Joe Nelson was not among them.

Nelson was arguably one of the more consistent relievers all season. He appeared in 59 games, he was 3-1 with a 2.00 flat ERA and 54 IP. Nelson is seeking around $800,000 while the Marlins offered $650,000 – about the same figure that Doug Waechter took with the Kansas City Royals. So it appears as if the Marlins are going to lose another member of the bullpen along with Arthur Rhodes and Doug Waechter.

Marlins Land Zach Kroenke

On the other hand, the Marlins did acquire another arm in Yankees’ farm hand, Zach Kroenke during the rule 5 draft that closed the Winter Meetings this past week. Kroenke is a lefty, flashing a midrange fastball (87-89) and will be looking to shoot for the lefty specialist role coming into Spring Training (LOOGY slot). Since he is a rule 5 draftee, he must stay with the Marlins the entire season or he must be offered back to the Yankees (for about 25K) before being demoted to the minors.

As for the rest of the rule 5 draft picks, the Marlins selected 4 in toto:

1. Zach Kroenke (LHP)
2. Ryan Klosterman (SS)
3. Bret Harker (RHP)
4. Ronald Hill (RHP)

Kroenke will have some competition for the lefty specialist role, squaring off with Reynel Pinto, Tank Tankersley, and Dan Meyer.

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