clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Carlos Marmol likely doesn't fit Theo Epstein's long-term plans

As Theo Epstein works to build the Chicago Cubs through his vision, it's becoming increasingly difficult to see how closer Carlos Marmol fits into that plan.

By Satchel Price
Jennifer Hilderbrand-US PRESSWIRE

With the Chicago Cubs trying to build a deep, talented organization for the future, paying top dollar for an inconsistent closer isn't exactly a big part of the plan. Considering that Carlos Marmol is currently set to make $8.9 million in 2013 from the Cubs, this could end up being his final go with the club, as Patrick Mooney of CSN Chicago writes.

While Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein isn't necessarily unhappy with Marmol as his stopper, he did speak about how he'd seek out a new closer if the veteran has to go:

I would look at it as an opportunity to try to give someone an opportunity. Either internally - a pitcher that we believed in and liked and exposed them to that role (so he) could maybe develop into that type of asset... Or go outside the organization and try to buy low on a pitcher that we really liked and then build value by putting him in that role.

Last season, Marmol posted a 3.42 ERA over 55.1 innings while saving 20 of 23 save opportunities. At various points during the season, Dale Sveum tried James Russell, Rafael Dolis and Shawn Camp in the role, but Marmol appears on track to keep the job going into 2013, at least.