Andrew Heaney Gets Another Chance

Jul 5, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Andrew Heaney (25) throws to a St. Louis Cardinals batter during the first inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

It was only a matter of time before the Marlins would take full advantage of the expanded roster, and it looks like today they made some additional moves to bolster their team and get some young players some big league experience.

By far the biggest name among this group is Marlins top prospect Andrew Heaney. Heaney struggled during his initial call up, largely due to his inability to miss bats. His strikeout rate plummeted from nearly 10 strikeouts per game to just over 5.

Since returning to the minor leagues, Heaney has been inconsistent, although his strikeout rate has improved to pre call-up levels. He has posted a 4.30 ERA and a 4.54 FIP in his 11 minor league starts since July. Hopefully the Marlins stop sending Brad Penny to the mound and provide Heaney with some valuable experience.

Anthony DeSclafani is another name that Marlins’ fans should be getting used to hearing. With a solid showing during September, DeSclafani could be auditioning for a spot in the rotation as early as next year. Anthony is making his 4th trip to the major’s this season and has been unable to get into a rhythm due to the short stints. He has posted a 6.84 ERA and a 4.27 FIP in 7 major league appearances this year.

Kike Hernandez is a utility player that the Marlins recently acquired in a trade with the Houston Astros that also brought over Jarred Cosart in exchange for Jake Marisnick and Colin Moran, among others. I don’t anticipate Hernandez getting many starts in the last few weeks. He will likely provide some depth at second base and a potential pinch hitter/runner.

Justin Bour is the final piece of the puzzle that was called up today. Bour, also known as the guy who should be playing first base instead of Garrett Jones, provides some left-handed pop from the first base position. Bour may get a start or two, but will mostly be another left-handed pinch-hitting option for Mike Redmond to deploy.

I am hopeful that J.T. Realmuto gets a call up soon, as he could be the catcher of the future if he continues to progress. What about you? Is there anyone in particular that you are hoping get a call up? Let us know in the comments below!