Marlins make a splash, acquire ace reliever Pete Fairbanks from Rays
The Miami Marlins are making headlines this offseason, signaling their intentions to compete in the coming years. Fresh off a commendable 79-83 season, the young franchise is eager to build on last year’s momentum, and they believe they’ve found a pivotal piece in reliever Pete Fairbanks. The 32-year-old right-hander transitions from the Tampa Bay Rays to the Marlins, marking a significant move for both teams in Florida.
A Focused Offseason Strategy
As the Marlins look to bolster their roster, Fairbanks stands out as a key acquisition amid an active offseason. While the team has been involved in trading players, bringing in Fairbanks could be a game-changer for their bullpen. The Marlins’ offense showed promise last season, averaging 4.38 runs per game, and the addition of Fairbanks aims to solidify their pitching staff as they eye improvement in 2026.
Consistency is Key
One of the primary reasons the Marlins pursued Fairbanks is his reliability. Last season, the Marlins’ bullpen struggled, ranking 22nd in Major League Baseball with a 4.28 ERA, 40 saves, and a 1.33 WHIP. They also surrendered 87 home runs, placing them 26th in the league for that statistic. This is precisely where Fairbanks can make an immediate impact.
Since 2020, Fairbanks has demonstrated remarkable consistency, posting a sub-three ERA in four seasons and averaging a commendable 2.73 ERA over that span. His durability is another asset; Fairbanks has averaged at least 45 innings pitched in each of the past three seasons, even reaching a career-high of 60.1 innings last year. With the Marlins in search of a reliable closer, Fairbanks could step into that role and provide the stability they desperately need.
Proven Track Record
Fairbanks has a well-established record of success in high-pressure situations. In his last three seasons, he has consistently recorded 20 or more saves, setting a career-high in the process. This ability to perform when the stakes are high makes him a valuable addition to a Marlins team looking to enhance its late-game performance.
As the Marlins continue to refine their roster, the addition of Pete Fairbanks signals their commitment to building a competitive team. With a stronger bullpen and an already competitive offense, Miami looks poised to make waves in the upcoming season.
