Chapman 'surprised' by how aggressively Marlins pursued him

The Miami Marlins' high-profile pursuit of a big-name closer shocked many this offseason, including their primary target, Aroldis Chapman.

Eager to address their desperate need for bullpen help, the Marlins received approval from ownership to extend a reported $87-million offer to Chapman. The left-hander ultimately agreed to a five-year, $86-million deal to return to the New York Yankees.

"I always talked to my agent that my priority was coming back to the Yankees," Chapman told Erik Boland of Newsday. "I was surprised how much the Marlins pushed to try and sign me, but my thoughts were always I want to come back to New York."

Chapman added: "From the first moment I got here in spring training (2016), the way they treated me, the attention that I got, the work ethic of this team, the clubhouse, the athletes they have ... All those things made me feel very comfortable, and that for me was the most important and the reason I wanted to come back."

After missing out on Chapman, the Marlins made a five-year offer to Kenley Jansen that reportedly exceeded $80 million. Jansen, however, rejected the deal and re-signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Despite missing out on both All-Stars, the Marlins' front office still put together a productive offseason, adding relievers Brad Ziegler and Junichi Tazawa.