Free agency is a go; where does Miami turn?

MIAMI -- The five-day window to sign their own free agents closed at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, and the Marlins now turn their attention shopping in the open market.

During MLB’s “quiet period,” Miami did make a significant move, exercising center fielder Starling Marte’s $12.5 million club option, a decision that was expected ever since the veteran was acquired from the D-backs on Aug. 31.

But on Friday, Miami declined closer Brandon Kintzler’s $4 million club option and will pay him a $250,000 buyout.

Kintzler, who saved 12 of 14 chances in 2020, is now a free agent.

The Marlins' other free agents who are now eligible to sign elsewhere are relievers Brad Boxberger and Nick Vincent, outfielder Matt Joyce, infielder Sean Rodríguez and catcher Francisco Cervelli.

Cervelli, however, has already announced his retirement.

Bringing back Boxberger remains an option. The 32-year-old appeared in 23 games and had 18 strikeouts in as many innings. He has appeared in 343 career games with a 3.56 ERA and 77 saves.

The Marlins still could re-engage in contract talks with Boxberger and Kintzler down the line in free agency, but both players will test the market.

Kintzler was a vocal leader on Miami's youthful 2020 roster. He showed poise in high-leverage situations and stepped up in the playoffs, throwing three scoreless innings with five strikeouts.

Even if the Marlins had picked up Kintzler’s option or signed him at lower figure, the club was still expected to search for a closer on the market.

Internally, Yimi García is the leading candidate to close. But the club will likely seek someone on the market with a proven track record or consider some of its hard-throwing internal options.

With Joyce not expected to return, the Marlins likely will pursue a veteran left-handed-hitting outfielder. Joyce, 36, appeared in 46 games and had a slash line of .252/.351/.331 with two home runs and 14 RBIs.