Marlins Reveal 25 Non-Roster Invitees

The Miami Marlins on Wednesday confirmed that 25 non-roster players will receive invites to Spring Training, Juan C. Rodriguez of the Sun Sentinel reports.

The Marlins roster is essentially complete at this point, so very few of these players have a real shot at making the team. There is however, some competition for reserve roles, with the possibility of  a lefty reliever making the team. However, the list of non-roster invitees is full of intriguing players. In total, the Marlins are bringing 65 players to big league camp.

That list is highlighted by Avery Romero, who performed well at low and high-A last season. He will likely see more time at high-A Jupiter before getting a crack at Double-A. Across both levels, he slashed .320/.367/.423, and he actually improved his OBP and slugging when promoted to high-A. Don’t expect to see him in the majors any time soon, but it’s possible that if he keeps up his current pace, he could be an everyday player somewhere down the road.

Pat Misch, Chris Narveson and Pat Urckfitz, are all left handers who signed minor league deals. Nick Wittgren, who wowed during the Arizona Fall League last year, and saved 20 games last season at Double-A also received an invitation.  

Jhonatan Solano, brother of current Marlin Donovan Solano, was also invited to Spring Training after signing a minor league contract. He saw limited time with the Nationals over the last couple seasons, and could be an emergency option if something happens to Jeff Mathis or Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

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Jordany Valdespin, who spent time in the big leagues for the Marlins last season, will also being making an appearance this spring. He never really got consistent playing time, but he flashed some power ability. Since the team went out and sold the farm for Dee Gordon this offseason, it’s tough to see Valdespin getting a shot to make the roster. However, his versatility could be useful if the Marlins fail to sign Ichiro, or another backup outfielder.

All in all, the biggest surprises this year will likely come from players already on the 40-man roster, as few people on this list will actually receive a shot at making the team. Reed Johnson and Kevin Slowey hung around long enough last year to make the team, so it’s not as if the Marlins don’t consider these players when finalizing the roster.

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