The Miami Marlins, currently in the midst of a playoff run, are exploring potential trade partners as the trade deadline approaches. One team that stands out as a promising trade partner is the Colorado Rockies. While the Rockies find themselves 17 games back and out of playoff contention, their roster includes a valuable asset that could greatly benefit the Marlins' postseason aspirations: three-time All-Star reliever Brad Hand.
Reason 1: Overused Pen The Marlins have faced numerous injuries and pitching struggles throughout the season. Most recently, the injury to Andrew Nardi, their setup man and go-to option in challenging situations, has left a void in the bullpen. Without Nardi, the Marlins have been rotating relief pitchers between their Triple-A affiliate, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, and the major league team, creating an unsustainable situation.
Furthermore, the recent call-up of Johnny Cueto, who has struggled in rehab starts, could potentially further exhaust the bullpen. Cueto's unpredictable outings, lasting anywhere from 1 to 6 innings, may not provide the relief the Marlins need. Adding a reliable arm like Hand would alleviate the burden on the bullpen and bring stability to the relief corps.
Reason 2: Depth/Experience The Marlins not only require additional bullpen support but also value the depth and experience Hand would bring to the team. The Rockies are reportedly open to trading Hand due to their record and his contract status. Hand is set to become a free agent unless the team exercises his option, which seems unlikely given the Rockies' situation. With a contract of 1 year and $2 million, Hand fits well within the Marlins' budget and could be acquired at a reasonable cost.
Although AJ Puk has been serving as the Marlins' closer this season, the 28-year-old lacks extensive experience, with only four major league seasons under his belt. Hand, on the other hand, has a proven track record and has excelled in playoff scenarios, including last season's postseason performance with the Phillies. His postseason experience and veteran leadership would be invaluable for the young Marlins bullpen.
Reason 3: Cost Considering the Marlins' limited farm system and lack of top prospects, the price for acquiring Hand should be relatively reasonable. An example from the past is the Kansas City Royals trading Aroldis Chapman to the Texas Rangers for a 25-year-old relief pitcher with a high ERA and a 17-year-old prospect. The Marlins, with their less deep farm system, could potentially offer a minor leaguer, such as a Devin Smeltzer-type player, and perhaps a Rookie ball player in exchange for Hand's services.
Reason 4: Stats When assessing potential trade candidates, the Marlins are mindful of the impact of playing at Coors Field, known for its hitter-friendly conditions. However, in the case of Brad Hand, his stats indicate that he performs better away from home. Last season, Hand pitched 45 innings for the Phillies, concluding with a 2.80 ERA and a 1.333 WHIP. This season, his performance on the road has been similarly strong, with a 3.29 ERA in 13.2 innings compared to a 6.14 ERA at home in 14.2 innings. Hand has also recorded 17 strikeouts both at home and on the road, while giving up fewer home runs away from home.
In addition, Hand has delivered scoreless innings on the road against division rivals such as the New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves. With his success against divisional opponents, Hand could provide the Marlins with an added edge as they compete for a playoff spot.
As the trade deadline approaches, Marlins general manager Kim Ng and her team will continue to explore the possibility of acquiring Hand from the Rockies. A trade for Hand would bolster the Marlins' bullpen and solidify their chances of making a deep postseason run.
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