Marlins expressing interest in Phil Hughes

The Miami Marlins have expressed interest in free-agent pitcher Phil Hughes, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.

Hughes, who has almost no chance of coming back to the Yankees after another disappointing year, certainly has the potential to pitch well, but it's also a matter of him finding that if willing to take a chance on him. As Jackson writes,

The Marlins often like to pursue players who had one bad year after a good one, hoping to get them at a reasonable price. So it’s not surprising they called about Yankees free agent right-hander Phil Hughes, who went 4-14 with a 5.19 ERA in 2013 after going 16-13 in 2012. The Marlins are considering adding an inexpensive veteran starting pitcher.

Hughes, 27, would be a great fit in Marlins Ballpark, without a doubt. Being a flyball pitcher, he made it clear that pitching in smaller parks like Yankee Stadium does not work in his favor. But being able to pitch most of his games in the big, spacious ballpark in Miami would certainly lower his homerun rate.

Hughes posted a 4.23 ERA with 7.8 K/9 and 2.2 BB/9 in 2012 but followed it up with a 5.19 ERA with 7.5 K/9 and 2.6 BB/9 in 2013.

The Marlins would also have nothing to lose by signing Hughes. They don't have a roster that is ready to compete in the NL Easy just yet, and should Hughes put together something decent, they might be able to trade him off for some other pieces.

The Twins, Royals and Mets have also shown interest in Hughes so far this offseason.

Follow @GavinEwbank2013 Tweet