Miami Marlins: Sickels Reviews Marlins Pre-Season Prospect List

"Feb 25, 2015; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins pitcher Nick Wittgren (77) poses during photo day at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports 16) Nick Wittgren, RHP, Grade C/C+: Impressive season in Triple-A, 2.89 ERA with 51/7 K/BB in 53 innings, 48 hits, 14 saves. Ready for big league bullpen trial."

I’m actually surprised Wittgren, the Marlins 9th round pick in the 2012 draft, has not already been called up. He’s having a strong season at the Triple-A level and seemed to be ready for the majors after doing well in Double-A last year.

Wittgren is seen as a potential closer candidate by many around the Miami Marlins, as he’s gained some experience of doing just that so far in the minors.

Two years ago, at the High-A level, Wittgren posted a 0.83 ERA and a 1.97 FIP in 54 1/3 innings of work, which put him on the radar. Last year was a bit of a drop off for him, but he still posted a steady 3.55 ERA and a 3.40 FIP in 66 innings of work.

He’s followed it up with a 2.83 ERA and a 3.54 FIP in 54 innings this season. Wittgren has struck out 53 in those 54 innings and walked just 7 hitters all season long.

The Marlins would be foolish not to give Wittgren a September callup this year, though he should have been up before the likes of a traveled veteran such as Erik Cordier.

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