Yankees Pursue Blackburn as Phillies and Marlins Draft Offseason Targets
Philadelphia seeks a left-handed setup pitcher, while Miami aims to bolster its rotation and find a corner position player.
By Ryan Davidson ·
The 2026-27 Major League Baseball offseason began one week ago, and club front offices have already identified specific roster gaps to fill.
According to a report from The Athletic, the Philadelphia Phillies plan to target a left-handed setup man. Manager Don Mattingly currently relies on Jonathan Bowlan, Caleb Kilian, Jhoan Duran, and Alex McFarlane for late-inning duties, all of whom throw right-handed. While Tanner Banks and Tim Mayza provide left-handed options in the middle innings, the team views their current late-inning group as lacking high-leverage lefty depth.
Free agent options include Adrian Morejon, ranked No. 2, JoJo Romero at No. 31, Alex Vesia at No. 35, and Kris Bubic at No. 45. Morejon and Bubic may transition to starting roles in the coming season. Other available left-handed relievers include Tim Hill, A.J. Minter, Sean Newcomb, Steven Okert, AJ Puk, and former Phillie Gregory Soto.
The New York Yankees have shown interest in re-signing setup man Paul Blackburn, as reported by the New York Daily News. New York requires a nearly complete bullpen rebuild. The club tendered closer David Bednar the qualifying offer and expects to retain him, likely through a multi-year contract. Blackburn pitched well in 2026, his first year as a full-time reliever, having previously replaced Luke Weaver in that role.
The Miami Herald reports that the Marlins intend to add depth to both their rotation and bullpen. The team also seeks a corner position bat for first base, third base, or the outfield. Sandy Alcantara and Eury Perez are the only certain starters in the rotation. Max Meyer is expected to return next season after recovering from a neck injury sustained this year.
Javier Sanoja, a Gold Glove finalist, played third base effectively this year but functions best as a utility player. Owen Caissie, Griffin Conine, and Heriberto Hernandez are listed as corner outfield options. Kyle Stowers moved to first base during the 2026 season, leaving the club with multiple areas where it can seek improvement.
