Marlins OF Garrett Cooper headed to Jupiter

By David Levin | Apr 20, 2019

MIAMI, FL - JULY 11: Garrett Cooper #30 of the Miami Marlins scores the game winning run in the twelfth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Marlins Park on July 11, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images) /

Miami Marlins outfielder Garrett Cooper will head to the team’s Spring Training complex in Jupiter, Florida to continue rehabbing a left calf strain.

Miami Marlins outfielder Garrett Cooper hopes this most recent stint on the disabled list will be his last of the season for the organization. After spending all but two games of this current season on the shelf, the 28-year-old will begin a rehab assignment in Jupiter, at the team’s Spring Training complex.

Cooper suffered a left calf strain that has kept away from the game. According to the team, he is ahead of schedule and his preparation to re-join the franchise.

"“He’s progressing along, that’s for sure,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly said. “He was doing some outfield drills today. He’s already been taking ground balls and hitting. He’s doing running progression and will do curves either today or tomorrow.”"

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The Marlins have used four right fielders since Opening Day against the Colorado Rockies. Peter O’Brien who was brought up to replace Cooper on the 25-man roster, has since been sent back down to Triple-A New Orleans. Austin Dean has been in the lineup of late. Finding a spot for Cooper in Miami may come down to an injury or the ball club once again making adjustments to the roster because of a lack of hitting this season.

The Marlins have scored a total of 51 runs in 20 games in 2019.

Because of his versatility, Cooper can play both corner outfield spots or spend time at first base. The Marlins hope he is able to add some power to their lineup once he is eligible to return to the Majors.

"Per Joe Frisaro of MLB.com, “He went on the 10-day injured list on March 31 and is currently hitting, fielding and doing some mild running. In the next few days, he is expected to begin running the bases, as well as doing drills that involve running curves to test how his calf responds.”"

The team will have Cooper play in rehab assignment games before his return. It has not been determined where that will be, but he could remain in Jupiter and play for the Hammerheads or move to either Clinton, the organization’s other Class-A team.

Cooper could also spend time in Jacksonville at the Double-A level or get some at-bats with the New Orleans Baby Cakes, the team’s Triple-A affiliate.

In three games, Cooper is hitless in seven at-bats. The small sample size followed a solid Grapefruit League when he hit .395.

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