Marlins outright utility man Jordany Valdespin to Triple-A

With the offseason underway, the Miami Marlins made a pair of transactions on Friday.

Utility player Jordan Valdespin was outrighted to Triple-A New Orleans, while the Texas Rangers claimed utility player Ed Lucas.

Valdespin, who signed a minor-league deal last December without an invitation to spring training, was coming off a 50-game suspension after the Biogenesis probe.

Upon his call-up in July, the 26-year-old hit .214 with three homers and 10 RBI in 52 games. Sixteen of his first 18 appearances were starts at second base when veteran Rafael Furcal reinjured himself. Donovan Solano, however, would take over starting duties by mid-August.

Lucas made his big-league debut May 30, 2013 with the Marlins after spending 10 years in the minors. After playing in 94 games in 2013, the 32-year-old saw action in 69 in 2014. He hit .251 with five doubles, a homer and nine RBI. Lucas played every infield position as well as both corner outfield spots.

Kiké Hernandez, acquired at the trade deadline from the Houston Astros, will likely take over the utility role. There are now 38 players on the 40-man roster.

You can follow Christina De Nicola on Twitter @CDeNicola13 or email her at cdenicola13@gmail.com.