The MLB free agency period is underway. Teams and players alike are looking to make big splashes during the off-season.

Miami Marlins interested in LHP Wood?

Although, pitching exclusively out of the Chicago Cubs' bullpen in 2016, the Miami Herald reports that the Marlins are interested in signing left-hander Travis Wood for their starting rotation. The 29-year-old was 4-0 with a 2.95 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in 61 innings pitched for the World Series champs. Wood has been used both as a starter and reliever in his career, posting a record of 35-50 with a 4.19 ERA, compared to 8-2 with a 2.83 ERA out of the bullpen. The Miami Herald also reported the Marlins have shown interest in RHP Edinson Volquez. In 189.1 innings pitched for the Kansas City Royals last season, Volquez struck out 139 and was 10-11 with a 5.37 ERA and 1.55 WHIP in 34 starts.

Tampa Bay Rays pursuing C Castro

The Tampa Bay Times reports that the Rays are "right in the thick of things" for free agent catcher Jason Castro. The 29-year-old has spent his entire career with the Houston Astros and is a hot commodity, earning a reputation for his defensive abilities and pitch framing. Castro is said to be looking for at least a three-year deal and considered to be the second-best healthy catcher on the free agent market behind the Baltimore Orioles' Matt Weiters. Along with the Rays, the Minnesota Twins and Atlanta Braves are also reportedly trying to sign the 2013 all-star. In 113 games in 2016, he batted .210 with 11 homeruns and 32 RBI.