Miami Marlins Sign Former Met Jordany Valdespin

Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Marlins have continued their active offseason by signing embattled outfielder Jordany Valdespin to a minor league contract. According to Marlins’ blogger Joe Frisaro, the contract does not include an invite to spring training.

Valdespin has had a troubled history in his short baseball career. Last year Jordany was suspended 50 games for his involvement with the Biogenesis scandal. Prior to that, Valdespin has been benched for various activities such as not running out ground balls, admiring home runs, and throwing clubhouse tantrums.

Despite all of his misgivings, Valdespin still has a baseball career due to his tantalizing talent. He is a versatile player, capable of playing both outfield and infield positions. He has speed, power and good defense. Without an invite to spring training, the Marlins have made it clear that they are going to make Jordany prove to the organization that he has changed his ways.

I like this signing by the Marlins. There is very little risk involved in this signing. Presumably, the Marlins will start Valdespin in triple A and see if he can perform, and keep his head on straight. If Valdespin proves to be a headache, it will just be one more bridge that he has burned in his baseball career. If he turns around his career, he could be a valuable utility player on the Marlins in future years.

What is your opinion on Jordany Valdespin? Do you think he can turn around a once promising career? Let us know in the comments below.