With a record number of arbitration-eligible players to deal with this winter, the Marlins are wasting little time molding next year's roster.
The organization's first offseason move came Sept. 30, when right-hander Sergio Mitre was released, reducing the number of potential arbitration cases to 15. Less than a week later, infielder Wes Helms, who was eligible for free agency, signed a two-year deal worth $1.9 million.
Mitre's release was not surprising, considering that he made $1.2 million in arbitration in 2008 but didn't pitch because of arm injuries. He had elbow problems in spring training, then underwent Tommy John surgery in July.
His departure still leaves the Marlins with a surplus of starters. Scott Olsen is likely to be traded, which would set up a rotation of Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, Anibal Sanchez, Chris Volstad and Andrew Miller.
The return of Helms gives the Marlins insurance at their infield corner positions. Third baseman Jorge Cantu is expected to be signed, but first baseman Mike Jacobs is considered more likely to be traded. Both are arbitration-eligible.
Helms hit .243 with five home runs and 31 RBIs in 132 games. His biggest contributions came as a pinch hitter, batting .317 (13-for-41) with two homers, including a game-winning pinch homer in the season finale at Shea Stadium.
"After doing a great job for us in 2006, we welcomed Wes back to the Marlins this year and he again strengthened our bench and was a positive influence in the clubhouse," Marlins baseball operations president Larry Beinfest said. "We look forward to Wes being part of highly productive Marlins clubs in 2009 and 2010."
Aside from Helms, the Marlins have one other player under a multiyear contract: shortstop Hanley Ramirez, who signed a six-year, $70 million deal in May.
