Marlins clear Cespedes frontrunner

MIAMI — The Marlins position as frontrunner for Yeonis Cespedes appears to be getting stronger.

Miami is exchanging contract numbers with the 26-year-old Cuban outfielder.

And on Sunday, two National League sources believe the Cubs are not seriously in the mix for Cespedes.

The buzz in the industry is Chicago’s focus is on 19-year-old Cuban sensation, Jorge Soler, who has yet to be ruled a free agent. The figure the Cubs are believed to be willing to spend on Soler (according to two sources) is $27.5 million. The number of years is not known.

Sources indicate the Marlins are clearly the team most likely to sign Cespedes.

Miami appears willing to pay in the $30-35 million range for Cespedes. But they have not offered as much as $40 million for six years.

– Joe Frisaro