Report: Marlins interested in revitalized Bud Norris
The Miami Marlins' search for rotation upgrades has reportedly led them to a divisional rival.
Miami is interested in Atlanta Braves right-hander Bud Norris, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network.
Norris got off to a rotten start this season, his first in Atlanta, pitching to an 8.74 ERA over five starts in his first month. Since then, the 31-year-old has turned his season around after a month-long bullpen stint, and has produced four solid starts for Atlanta since returning to the rotation, including a solid performance against Miami on Tuesday.
A TALE OF TWO SEASONS: NORRIS' APRIL VS. MAY/JUNE
| GP/GS | ERA | K/BB | H | HR | Opp. BA | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | 5/5 | 8.74 | 17/11 | 34 | 6 | .340 |
| May and June | 16/4 | 2.43 | 35/17 | 30 | 0 | .213 |
The eight-year veteran owns a 4.46 ERA while averaging 8.2 strikeouts per nine innings over his career with five teams.
Norris would represent a cheaper option for the Marlins than some of their other reported targets, including Jake Odorizzi and Drew Pomeranz, both of whom Miami has reportedly discussed with the Rays and Padres, respectively. The team is reportedly not interested in trading from their major-league team to improve the staff.
The surging Marlins, who enter Thursday's action just one game out of a wild-card spot, are interested in upgrading their rotation behind stalwart Jose Fernandez to keep themselves afloat in the race for October. Despite the brilliance of Fernandez, Marlins starters own a collective 4.07 ERA this year.