MIAMI -- Even though the Marlins didn't tender reliever Joe Nelson a contract on Friday, the team did leave the door open for a possible return.

Shortly after the non-tender deadline passed at midnight ET on Friday, Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest called Nelson.

"He said it was a business decision, nothing personal," Nelson said on Saturday. "The Marlins have a certain amount of money allotted for the bullpen, and they felt I was over that."

The conversation was friendly, and Beinfest made it clear that the Marlins wanted to still talk. However, there is no guarantee the money will be in the range Nelson may be seeking.

"Larry said he wanted to keep the lines of communication open," Nelson said.

Nelson's agent, Doug Schaer, fielded a few inquiries on Saturday regarding the 34-year-old right-hander, who is now a free agent.

Working within a tight budget, Florida was offering about $650,000 for Nelson, who might be able to top $800,000 on the open market.

Nelson was a valuable setup man last year, posting a 3-1 record with a 2.00 ERA in 59 games. He also has experience closing.

"I really wanted to be a Marlin, but we didn't come to terms," said Nelson, a West Palm Beach, Fla., resident.

In 1999, Nelson underwent Tommy John ligament replacement surgery to his right elbow. While being treated for that ailment, he met a radiologist named Teresa, who eventually became his wife.

Nelson broke in with the Braves in 2001, and he also pitched for the Red Sox in '04. In '06, he appeared in 43 games with Kansas City.

Former Marlins right-hander Doug Waechter, a good friend of Nelson's, signed with the Royals a few days ago.

Kansas City and Boston may be possible options for Nelson in free agency.

This past week, Nelson attended the Winter Meetings in Las Vegas, where he had a chance to speak to the Marlins and get his name out there potentially for other teams.

Of the 10 arbitration players the Marlins had eligible on Friday, Nelson was the only one not tendered.

Florida did tender Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, Dan Uggla, Cody Ross, Jeremy Hermida, Jorge Cantu, Alfredo Amezaga, Logan Kensing and Dallas McPherson.

With Florida, Nelson was a veteran presence in a youthful bullpen.

Matt Lindstrom is the front-runner to be the closer. Leo Nunez, acquired from the Royals for Mike Jacobs, may have the edge to replace Nelson as the primary setup right-hander.

Other right-handed relief options include Kensing, Ryan Tucker, Frankie De La Cruz, Burke Badenhop and Jesus Delgado.

And there remains a chance Nelson could join the mix down the line.

"The door is not completely closed," he said.