PHILADELPHIA -- A familiar face is on the verge of rejoining the Marlins' organization. Right-hander Dustin McGowan is finalizing a Minor League contract with Miami, and eventually he is expected to join Triple-A New Orleans.
Upon completion of the deal, the 36-year-old will report to extended spring training in Jupiter, Fla., to get built up before reporting to the Baby Cakes.
McGowan was one of the Marlins' most heavily used relievers in 2016-17. In the offseason, he signed a Minor League contract with the Rays, but was released in early March.
McGowan appeared in 63 games for the Marlins last year, throwing 77 2/3 innings with a 4.75 ERA. His best season with the club came in 2016, when he had a 2.82 ERA in 67 innings over 55 games.
The Marlins are building as much bullpen depth as possible. At the rate they are going at the big league level, they're going to need it.
Entering Friday, Marlins relievers had logged 40 1/3 innings, topping all Major League bullpens. Second were the Brewers, with 31 1/3 innings.
In their first seven games, the Marlins have played three extra-inning games. They were off on Friday before resuming their series with the Phillies on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park.