Marlins decline Kintzler's option for 2021

MIAMI -- Add closer to the Marlins’ offseason shopping list.

The position is now up in the air because on Friday, the Marlins announced that they have declined right-hander Brandon Kintzler’s club option for 2021.

The option was for $4 million, and it included a $250,000 buyout.

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Kintzler, 36, was one of the veteran leaders on the Marlins, converting 12 of 14 save opportunities to go along with a 2.22 ERA in 24 appearances in 2020.

Since the World Series ended on Tuesday night, the Marlins tried to rework the $4 million figure in hopes of retaining him for next year.

All teams have until 5 p.m. ET on Sunday to exclusively negotiate with their own free agents. If an agreement isn’t reached by then, Kintzler will be eligible to negotiate with other clubs.

The decision to decline Kintzler's option came two days after the Marlins exercised center fielder Starling Marte's $12.5 million club option.

On Wednesday, six eligible players from Miami’s 2020 roster became free agents -- right-handers Brad Boxberger and Nick Vincent, along with catcher Francisco Cervelli (who announced his retirement), infielder Logan Forsythe, outfielder Matt Joyce and infielder Sean Rodríguez.

Of the group, Boxberger is a possibility to sign with Miami by Sunday’s deadline. If not, he could join Kintzler on the open market.

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Boxberger, Kintzler and Yimi García were the Marlins' primary late-inning bullpen options. García is expected to be back.

Kintzler was one of the Marlins’ vocal leaders, and he backed it up with production. The right-hander logged 24 1/3 innings, and in the postseason, he made three appearances, throwing three scoreless innings with five strikeouts, no walks and one save.

The Marlins were a surprise club in 2020, making the playoffs for the first time since '03, and enjoying a winning season for the first time since '09.

Kintzler helped mentor a roster than included 18 players making their MLB debuts.

Miami finished second to the Braves in the National League East, and defeated the Cubs in two games in the NL Wild Card Series, before they were eliminated by the Braves in three games in the NL Division Series.

“The window is just opening for this team,” Kintzler said after the Marlins were eliminated by Atlanta. “Hopefully, they take advantage of it.”

Whether Kintzler returns to Miami or not, the club still could be looking for a closer, either internally, in free agency or through a trade.

Kintzler has 61 career saves.

“I just hope that I made a mark on this team,” Kintzler said a few weeks ago. “They brought in these young kids. They’re teachable. The front office did a great job of teaching these guys in the Minor Leagues.”