Major League Baseball

Sources: Marlins still working to get Pirates closer

Published Jul. 9, 2009 8:28 a.m. ET

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In need of bullpen help, the Marlins have maintained contact with the Pirates about closer Matt Capps, sources said Wednesday.

But the sides aren't close to a deal, in large part because Pittsburgh seems to have little interest in outfielder Jeremy Hermida, one of Florida's primary trade chips.


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The Marlins have already included Hermida in an offer for Capps, sources said, but the Pirates declined. It's not clear if other players were involved on either end.

Financially, at least, the two players would have made for a straightforward 1-for-1 deal: Capps is earning $2.3 million this year, Hermida $2.25 million. Both players are on track to enter free agency after the 2011 season.

With closer Matt Lindstrom on the disabled list, the Marlins would like to stabilize their bullpen. Capps, who has converted 19 of 21 save opportunities this year, is one of their top choices. He is 1-4 with a 4.71 ERA in 31 appearances.

Pittsburgh is still sorting through suitors for Capps, although one source said the Pirates don't appear entirely certain that they will move him before the July 31 trade deadline.

Hermida's slugging percentage has declined since last year, although he remains a formidable left-handed hitter with a .249 average, eight home runs and 30 RBIs. He's become more expendable recently because of Brett Carroll's development in the big leagues and Cameron Maybin's presence at Triple-A.

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