Jennings: Haren on board, Fernandez may be ready in June

MIAMI -- Dan Haren is ready to be part of the Marlins' rotation and ace Jose Fernandez could be back as early as June 15, according to general manager Dan Jennings.

Jennings addressed Haren and Fernandez on SiriusXM's MLB Network Radio on Sunday, and noted Miami still may add a reliever before Spring Training begins on Feb. 20.

Speaking with hosts Jim Bowden and Jim Duquette, Jennings also said the organization will see how the James Shields situation plays out. Miami has been one of the clubs vying for the former Royals ace.

There are strong signals Shields will sign with the Padres.

"We've had internal discussions about [Shields] and all other free agents," Jennings said. "I've known James a long time, drafted him when I was the scouting director at Tampa [Bay]. Someone is going to get an outstanding pitcher. We'll see what transpires over the next few days, where he goes."

With Shields expected to join San Diego, the Marlins did receive some good news from Haren, who has been undecided about pitching in Miami.

The 34-year-old, acquired from the Dodgers in December, previously expressed his desire to pitch on the West Coast. But recently, he informed the Marlins he is ready to be a part of their staff.

"We've talked about his desire to pitch out on the West Coast," Jennings said. "We've had conversations with him. He is preparing for Spring Training, like he's done any other year. I think he will be primed and ready to go. To use his own words, he's looking very forward to being a Miami Marlin."

The Marlins are also optimistic about Fernandez's return. The right-hander, who underwent Tommy John surgery last May, should be ready between June 15 and July 15.

If it's the best-case scenario, June 15, there should be plenty of excitement. Miami will face the Yankees at Marlins Park that night.

But, first things first.

Fernandez will throw off the mound when Spring Training begins.

"He will start his progression there," Jennings said. "Then, there will be a rehab assignment, depending on where that is."

The Marlins also remain open to adding another bullpen piece, perhaps free agent Francisco Rodriguez, the 33-year-old who had 44 saves last year with the Brewers. Rafael Soriano, who saved 32 games for the Nationals, is also available.

"[It's] the old adage, 'You never have enough pitching,'" Jennings said. "We've talked to some people potentially about bringing maybe one more, two more guys into camp. We're always looking, if it makes sense for us to do -- short-term, long-term -- then we'll do it."