http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130113&content_id=40945132&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlbKearns set to come back to Marlins on Minors pact
MIAMI -- Some experienced depth appears to be returning to the Marlins.
Austin Kearns will sign a Minor League contract with the Marlins with an invitation to Spring Training, according to the Miami Herald.
Kearns, 32, made the 2012 Marlins as a non-roster invitee, and he was used primarily as a right-handed bat off the bench. In 87 games, the veteran outfielder batted .245 with four home runs and 16 RBIs.
Kearns provides depth as a corner outfielder and at first base.
The Marlins have a concern at first base, because Logan Morrison's status is unclear. Morrison is recovering from right knee surgery, and he isn't expected to begin running until about a week into Spring Training.
If Morrison isn't ready, the team will be looking at other first-base options.
The Marlins are not interested in bringing back free-agent first baseman Carlos Lee.
Joe Frisaro is a reporter for MLB.com. He writes a blog, called The Fish Pond. Follow him on Twitter @JoeFrisaro. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
