Why the Miami Marlins should consider buying low on a former SF Giants closer

The Miami Marlins are expected to be one of the quieter teams this offseason as they attempt to rebuild. Traditionally, the small-market club does not make splashes in the free agency pool. However, a slew of moves during last season's Trade Deadline proves that new President Peter Bendix is more than willing to work phones in an effort to improve his team.

While nearly all of his trades have involved sending veterans in exchange for valued prospects, there is one bullpen arm reportedly on the market that would be an ideal buy-low target: former San Fransisco Giants closer Camilo Doval.

Doval's MLB career began with a bang as he recorded 27 saves on a 2.53 ERA during his rookie campaign. He followed up with a league-leading 39 saves with a 2.93 ERA during his sophomore season, establishing himself as one of baseball's premier young closers.

Unfortunately for the Giants' budding star, the wheels fell off in 2024. While he still managed to post 23 saves, his ERA ballooned to 4.88. He also walked a career-high 39 batters. This led to Doval being replaced as closer by Ryan Walker, and eventually being DFA'd by San Fransisco.

So why should the Marlins target the struggling former closer?

Under the hood, Doval still flashed high potential. The combination of his 60% ground ball rate and 28.8% strikeout rate remain rock-solid. Additionally, his Baseball Savant advanced metrics show his high-velocity pitches still rank in the 95+ percentile in several key metrics.

His walk rates are undoubtedly an issue. Thankfully, Miami's pitching development is among the best in the league.

The Marlins have a slew of interesting bullpen arms in Calvin Faucher, Declan Cronin, Anthony Bender, and Andrew Nardi. However, they lack a player with a true closing pedigree.

Doval, who is still only 27 years old, would be an excellent trade target. His sub-par 2024 season should create a low price tag. His stuff remains elite. And he has legitimate bounce-back potential.

He would be a perfect candidate to rehab and trade for high value at the 2025 deadline (something we know Bendix is well-versed in). Doval is also under club control through the 2027 season. This means that, if he can rebound, he could be a part of the Marlins' next window of competitiveness.

The upside is there. If the price is right, Bendix and company would be wise to reach out to the Giants today.