Marlins signed INF/OF Matt Downs to a minor league contract. He'll receive an invitation to spring training. Downs batted .241/.303/.448 with 18 homers over the last two seasons with the Astros while playing six different positions. The 28-year-old's best chance at playing time with the Marlins will probably be at second base, where the club is currently slated to go with Donovan Solano. He could also wind up seeing ample time at third if Placido Polanco's back acts up again.