Marlins reportedly make offer to LaRoche

MIAMI -- The Marlins may not have to look outside of their own division to find a middle-of-the-order hitter. Miami reportedly has a two-year, $20 million offer on the table to free agent Adam LaRoche, according to the Miami Herald.

The 35-year-old first baseman batted .259 with 26 home runs and 92 RBIs for the Nationals last season.

The club has not confirmed the offer, but MLB.com has confirmed the Marlins have strong interst in LaRoche, as well as free-agent right-hander James Shields.

LaRoche reportedly also has drawn interest from the White Sox and Padres.

It's been a whirlwind week for the Marlins, who announced the signing of Giancarlo Stanton to a 13-year, $325 million contract on Wednesday. Stanton's contract is structured to allow Miami the flexibility to add complementary pieces.

LaRoche would be a left-handed power bat who knows the National League East. Hitting behind Stanton would be an envious spot for any power hitter.

If LaRoche joins Miami, he also would have some familiarity with the coaching staff. When he was with the Pirates, current Marlins infield coach Perry Hill was on Pittsburgh's staff.

The Marlins' reported offer is the same deal Michael Cuddyer signed with the Mets last week.

Miami also is believed to have the payroll flexibility to add both LaRoche and Shields.