Report: Marlins have had internal talks about A-Rod

If Alex Rodriguez decides to keep playing after the New York Yankees release him following Friday's game, there's a chance the 41-year-old could continue his quest for 700 home runs in his hometown.

The Miami Marlins, who enter Thursday tied for the first National League wild-card spot, have reportedly had internal discussions about Rodriguez, according to Jon Heyman of Today's Knuckleball. Rodriguez, who moved to Miami with his family at age eight, first drew national attention as a teenager at Westminster Christian School, about a 30-minute drive from Marlins Park, and currently makes his offseason home in nearby Coral Gables.

At this point, however, there's no hard evidence the Marlins will try to sign A-Rod, and Heyman notes Miami showed no interest in acquiring the three-time MVP leading up to the Aug. 1 non-waiver trade deadline.

Still, the Yankees are on the hook for over $27 million remaining on Rodriguez's contact, and the Marlins could use an upgrade on the bench - their non-starters have managed an uninspired .220/.293/.305 line in 295 plate appearances this season.

Rodriguez, who owns just a .609 OPS in 62 games this season but sits four home runs shy of 700 for his career, said earlier this week that he hasn't thought about playing elsewhere once he's released.

"I don't have an answer right now," Rodriguez said, according to MLB.com's Bryan Hoch. "I'm content with the way this week has gone down and appreciative. I've been overwhelmed by the emails and the texts and the phone calls I've been getting. And for a guy who screwed up so much, I feel very humble to be in this position."