The question many Miami Marlins fans are asking likely right now is “Who are we signing?”. After all, it is free agency for all 30 MLB teams and the Marlins haven’t made any huge splashes yet. However, rumors are flying all over the place and there is potential for the Marlins to bring back Brad Hand, who last played on the Marlins in 2015.
Brad Hand
Brad Hand is a 3 time All Star who is coming off a season where he led the entire American League in saves. Before his streak of dominance with the Padres and Indians, he was a middle of the pack pitcher for the Marlins, the team that drafted him in 2008. On the Marlins, Hand had a 4.71 ERA in five seasons, racking up 9 wins and 25 losses. Hand was both a starter and reliever on the Marlins, but now he is strictly a star closer in the MLB.
Last year, in the MLB’s shortened season, Hand walked away with a 2-1 record, 2.05 ERA, and MLB-leading 16 saves. His consistency and ability to control the path of the ball makes him a top Free Agent for the Marlins to sign.
Potential Fit
If Hand is to sign with the Marlins, he would be their closer in 2021. Right now, the Marlins closer is Yimi Garcia. The Marlins can also decide to bring back Brandon Kintzler, who was very clutch for them last season. Liam Hendriks, Mark Melancon, and Kirby Yates are among other relievers available in the Free Agent market for the Marlins to sign.
Projections
At present however, most reports are saying that Hand is likely to sign with the New York Yankees or Los Angeles Dodgers, along with a host of other places.
Hand’s velocity on his fastball has been decreasing noticeably as of his last few seasons, from 93-94 to 90-91 but nonetheless, he is still a left handed strikeout machine and will surely sign a deal… will it be with the Marlins? We’ll have to wait and see.