Marlins could find Pete Fairbanks’ trade market shrinking with widening ERA originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Possessing a power arm with high-leverage experience, Miami Marlins relief pitcher Pete Fairbanks remains a top candidate to be traded before the MLB deadline, despite a bloated earned-run average.
The eight-year veteran could have scared off a few interested parties Friday night, yielding MJ Melendez’s walk-off, two-run home run, leading the New York Mets to a 9-7, 10-inning victory at Citi Field.
With Saturday’s 6-1 loss, the Marlins dropped their fourth straight, slipping to 26-33 and six games out of the NL Wild Card race. If they continue to falter, Fairbanks, who will be a free agent next winter, generally would have a number of clubs inquiring about his price tag.
With Fairbanks’ 7.53 ERA albatross, what type of deal could Marlins general manager Gabe Kapler hope to negotiate with one of the league’s bigger names?
Marlins’ Pete Fairbanks needs smoother outings
Fairbanks faced two batters Friday, releasing four pitches. He forced leadoff batter Juan Soto to fly out to center field on his first offering. Melendez then faced three straight fastballs, slamming a 98-mph four-seamer 373 feet to keep the Marlins skidding.
With Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman and Houston Astros‘ Josh Hader expected to be dangled to contenders, Fairbanks likely would be a fallback option for most front offices.
Three times this season, Fairbanks yielded three earned runs during three of his 16 appearances. Two of those appearances bookended his time on the league’s paternity list. He had two blown saves.
But he also thrived in the 2020 playoffs, earning three saves. He also posted 96 career saves. Signed to a $13 million deal, Fairbanks’ prorated salary could prove an enticing investment for deep-pocketed contenders.
Can they afford to add his ERA?