Yardbarker
Yardbarker
x
Marlins announce whopping number of roster moves
Miami Marlins pitcher Max Meyer. Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

The Marlins announced a whopping 11 roster moves in advance of Saturday's game with the Phillies. Right-handers Max Meyer and Calvin Faucher were each placed on the 15-day injured list, with Meyer’s placement due to right shoulder bursitis retroactive to Sept. 4 and Faucher’s placement due to right shoulder impingement syndrome retroactive to Sept. 5. Derek Hill was also placed on the 10-day IL with a retroactive September 5 date, as the outfielder is dealing with a left shoulder impingement. Left-hander Andrew Nardi’s season is officially over after a move to the 60-day injured list, while left-hander Austin Kitchen was designed for assignment and right-hander Anthony Maldonado was optioned to Triple-A Jacksonville.

With the departures completed, here is the list of players joining Miami’s active roster. Righty Anthony Bender was reinstated from the 15-day IL, and right-handers George Soriano and Lake Bachar were called up from Triple-A. Also up from Jacksonville are left-hander Jonathan Bermudez and utilityman Javier Sanoja, whose contracts selected to the big league roster. Daniel Alvarez-Montes of El Extra Base reported (via X) earlier today that Sanoja was being promoted for his Major League debut, while Isaac Azout of Fish On First initially reported (links to X) that Meyer was headed to the IL and that Bermudez and Bachar were being promoted.

Meyer had been scheduled to start Sunday, but he’ll now hit the IL in the latest of a seemingly unending parade of injuries to Miami starters. While more will be known about Meyer’s situation later Saturday, it stands to reason that the Marlins could shut down the 25-year-old both due to this injury concern and the club’s overall plan to limit Meyer’s workload this season. Between 57 innings in the majors and 58 innings in the minors, Meyer had done a pretty good job of rebuilding his arm strength after missing all of 2023 due to a Tommy John surgery.

In terms of on-field results, Meyer has a 5.68 ERA over his 57 frames in the Show. His 50% grounder rate is very strong and his 7.7% walk rate is around league average, but he has allowed a ton of hard contact and struck out only 18.5% of opposing batters. Such struggles aren’t unexpected for a player in his first extended taste of MLB action, as Meyer’s only big league experience prior this season was a two-game cup of coffee in 2022 prior to his TJ procedure.

In addition to Meyer, it is worth speculating if Faucher or Hill might also be shut down for the remainder of 2024, given the late date on the calendar. The Marlins turned in this direction with Nardi, who only went to the 15-day IL a couple of weeks ago, and manager Skip Schumaker seemed optimistic at the time of the 15-day placement about the chances of Nardi returning before the end of September. Instead, Nardi’s season is done after posting a 5.07 ERA over 49 2/3 innings, though a set of impressive Statcast metrics and a 2.79 SIERA indicates that Nardi was among the more unlucky pitchers in the league.

Faucher has been one of the few bright spots for Miami this season, as the righty has overcome a .345 BABIP and a lot of walks to post a 3.19 ERA and 26.8% strikeout rate in 53 2/3 relief innings. The Marlins opted against trading Faucher amidst their many moves at the trade deadline and instead installed him at closer after Tanner Scott was dealt to the Padres.

Soriano’s one save makes him the only player on Miami’s active roster with any saves this season, so the Marlins could turn to a committee to handle the ninth inning for the rest of the season. Bender (in only his third MLB season) has the most experience of anyone in Miami’s bullpen and might be the favorite to close games now that he has recovered from the shoulder impingement that has sidelined him for the last four weeks. Bender has a 49.2% grounder rate and above-average strikeout and walk rates and is another Marlins pitcher whose real ERA (4.00) isn’t quite as reflective of how well he has pitched in 2024.

Bermudez returns to the big leagues after he was designated for assignment and then outrighted just within the last week. He’ll take over the 40-man roster spot left open by Kitchen, who is also heading to the DFA wire for the second time this season. The southpaw was designated by the Rockies in June and then quickly snapped up by Miami on a waiver claim.

Kitchen made his Major League debut on July 30 and thus far has only a 14.14 ERA to show for his seven innings and four games as a big leaguer. Six of his 11 earned runs allowed came just Friday in Miami’s 16-2 loss to the Phillies, as Kitchen had to make a short-notice start when Edward Cabrera was a late scratch due to migraine-like symptoms. Kitchen is a grounder specialist with good control, and while he has pitched pretty well in the minors, his lack of strikeouts could put a ceiling on his effectiveness against MLB hitters.

Hill has hit .238/.262/.427 over 151 plate appearances with the Marlins, Giants, and Rangers this season, with the 151 PA representing a new career high over Hill’s five seasons in the Show. Beginning the year on minors deal with Texas, he then went to the Giants for a brief stint after one waiver claim, and Miami again claimed him off waivers just over a month ago. The Marlins had plenty of holes to fill in the outfield after their trade deadline selloff, and Hill took advantage with some regular work in center field and a few appearances in left.

Sanoja was an international signing for the Marlins in July 2019 and over four minor league seasons has emerged as an extreme contact hitter, with only 136 strikeouts in 1783 PA in Miami’s farm system. A lack of power has limited what Sanoja has done with that contact, but between his speed and his knack for getting the bat on the ball, he has hit .291/.354/.431 over 492 Triple-A PA in 2024. Sanoja has stolen 83 bases in 126 attempts in the minors, so there is some extra baserunning potential there if Sanoja can become more efficient with his steals rate. Defensively, Sanoja is considered to fit best as a second baseman, but he is a decent enough fielder that he can play all over the diamond, so this versatility gives him more of a chance to stick in the Show.

The Marlins figure to use Sanoja at multiple positions during his time on the roster, though the team probably wishes he could pitch, given its larger needs on the mound. Some reinforcements might be coming before the season is over, as Ryan Weathers and Braxton Garrett have each started minor-league rehab assignments. Neither hurler has pitched since June, as Weathers has been dealing with a finger sprain and Garrett with a flexor strain in his left forearm.

This article first appeared on MLB Trade Rumors and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

TODAY'S BEST

The 'Four+ 20-home run/20-stolen base MLB seasons' quiz
MLB Quiz

The 'Four+ 20-home run/20-stolen base MLB seasons' quiz

Seattle Mariners star Julio Rodriguez hit the 100th home run of his career against the Texas Rangers on Sunday, and it was an important one. His two-run home run came in a 5-4 victory over the Rangers to give Seattle an important series win for both the American League West and Wild Card standings. It was also his 20th dinger of the season, giving him a historic fourth-consecutive 20-home run/20 stolen base season to start his MLB career. Which brings us to today’ quiz. Rodriguez became the first player in MLB history to reach the 20/20 milestone four times in the first four seasons of his career. With that being said, can you name every player in MLB history to have at least four career 20/20 seasons? Good luck! Did you like this quiz? Are there any quizzes you’d like to see us make in the future? Let us know your thoughts at quizzes@yardbarker.com, and make sure to subscribe to our Quiz of the Day Newsletter for daily quizzes sent right to your email!

Justin Fields Called 'Biggest Loser' In Jets Training Camp
NFL

Justin Fields Called 'Biggest Loser' In Jets Training Camp

The New York Jets opted to cut Aaron Rodgers and sign Justin Fields to replace him during the offseason. This kind of commitment to Fields should bolster his confidence, but it could also place a lot of pressure on his shoulders. To this point, Fields has looked solid in training camp, aside from a scary toe injury that was quickly resolved in July. Justin Fried of the Jet Press recently reported that Fields' training camp may have reached a new low over the weekend as the young signal caller struggled. "Justin Fields put together his best practice of the summer to this point on Friday, completing his first 12 passes en route to an excellent all-around performance. The same can't be said about his showing on Saturday, however," Fried wrote. "Fields finished the day an abysmal 2-of-10 in the air, including a drop from rookie tight end Mason Taylor. "Some of his incompletions were catchable balls, but the Jets' passing game struggles on Saturday can largely be blamed on No. 7. Fields did flash his running ability with a 25-yard rushing score on the first play of red-zone drills, but the Jets would like to see more consistency in the air from the starting quarterback. Saturday's scrimmage was far from his best showing of the summer." Fields is a runner first at the NFL level, but his arm is nothing to scoff at. For most of training camp, his arm talent has been better than advertised, but during Saturday's scrimmage, it just wasn't there. A 2 for 10 performance is unacceptable for a $40 million quarterback who was signed to take over the team. The running game should open up the passing game for the Jets, which is going to need to be the case if Fields is going to struggle like this. However, it's just one day of camp. It's nothing to be too concerned about. Just because Fields lost this specific practice doesn't mean he's heading in the wrong direction as a whole.

Saints quarterback has 'convincing lead' in training camp battle
NFL

Saints quarterback has 'convincing lead' in training camp battle

The New Orleans Saints' three-way quarterback competition is narrowing before the team's first preseason contest against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. Per Ross Jackson of Louisiana Sports, second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler has looked the best at training camp this summer, going 83-of-114 passing (72.8 percent) for eight touchdowns, two rushing touchdowns and four interceptions. Rattler is beating out rookie Tyler Shough. The second-round pick has completed just 62 percent of his passes for five touchdowns and three interceptions. 2023 fourth-round pick Jake Haener has completed 69.6 percent of his passes for five touchdowns and one Interception. Jackson believes first-year head coach Kellen Moore is priming Rattler as the favorite to start in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals. "Over the team’s 10 practices, these three young passers have seen their chance to earn the starting role to begin the season in a rotation of first-team reps," Jackson wrote. "But there are decisions the Saints have made in the process that indicate a favorite. "After looking over individual performance stats, practice rep distribution and the team’s treatment of each quarterback throughout the important and highly-productive scrimmages on camp day 10, it’s become clear that Rattler is comfortably in the lead, for now." Jackson thinks Rattler can fend off his "convincing lead" for the starting job if he plays competently against the Chargers on Sunday. Rattler feels like the safe choice for Moore over Shough and Haener, at least to start the regular season. He appeared in seven games and started in six in 2024. Rattler played inconsistently as a rookie, throwing four touchdowns to five interceptions. However, he's had time to develop. Given his numbers in training camp, Rattler appears to be the most polished quarterback before the regular season. Shough could eventually develop into the Saints' best option, but the rookie's completion percentage against friendly competition at camp is low before he even faces live action in the preseason.

Zero RB Strategy Explained: Top Fantasy Football Targets for 2025
NFL

Zero RB Strategy Explained: Top Fantasy Football Targets for 2025

If you’ve participated in fantasy football for a few years, chances are you’ve heard discussions about “Zero RB.” But what does the zero running back strategy actually mean, and how might it benefit fantasy managers on draft day? The following is a comprehensive look at the Zero RB approach, as well as players suited to this draft philosophy whom you can consider targeting for the upcoming season. Don't forget to sign up for your fantasy football league on Yahoo Sports! What is Zero RB Strategy? Although its name suggests otherwise, the Zero RB strategy doesn’t require fantasy football managers to entirely disregard the running back position during drafts or leave those roster spots empty. Typically, the Zero RB approach involves focusing on other positions in the early rounds, building a strong group of wide receivers and locking in top options at quarterback and/or tight end. While opinions differ on the exact round where Zero RB draws the line, the strategy generally means waiting until at least the fifth round or beyond to select your first running back. Running back is one of the most unpredictable positions throughout the season, largely due to injuries. Backup players often step into starting roles and deliver significant fantasy production, no matter their perceived talent. By spending minimal draft capital on premium running backs and instead targeting late-round options with breakout potential, the Zero RB strategy aims to capitalize on this volatility. Use promo code YARD20 for $20 off your FantasyLabs fantasy football subscription! Pros of Zero RB Strategy There are several appealing advantages to the Zero RB strategy, making it especially popular among bold fantasy football drafters. One clear benefit is the opportunity to build greater strength at other positions when running backs are bypassed early. This approach lets fantasy managers more easily prioritize the single starting spots at quarterback and tight end. Instead of struggling to fit high-upside players like Brock Bowers in the second round or elite quarterbacks such as Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, or Jalen Hurts into your early draft plan, the Zero RB method actually encourages you to target these difference-makers. The positional edge provided by top quarterbacks and tight ends is tempting, but many fantasy players hesitate to spend early draft capital on them. Zero RB, however, expands your flexibility and allows you to load up on these potential game-changers. Injuries are another key factor in favor of this strategy. Running backs are more prone to injuries than most other positions. Every season, several first-round backs land on injured reserve, sinking their fantasy managers’ title hopes along the way. Even elite talents like Christian McCaffrey have endured significant mid-season injuries in multiple years. Zero RB aims to avoid the risk of early picks being wasted on running backs and instead focuses on investing in positions with fewer injury risks. The strategy also aims to take advantage of the inherent volatility at running back—when injuries happen, backups often step into sizable workloads, which rarely occurs at wide receiver. Late-round backs can produce major fantasy value, and with enough lottery ticket picks, you could land on a league-winning player at a bargain. For example, last year Chase Brown emerged from a crowded backfield in Cincinnati to deliver a top-10 PPR season. Of course, there are drawbacks. For starters, you’ll need those late-round running backs to outperform expectations to have a real shot at a fantasy championship. Relying on backups and timeshare players fills your bench with potential options—or weekly headaches as you try to decide who to start. Often, a Zero RB draft means your week one running backs look weak on paper. That’s part of the plan: you hope your other positions are stacked and that, as injuries strike, you’ll be able to improve your running back situation. The greatest risk may come if your top quarterback or tight end suffers a major injury. Since Zero RB teams use early picks to secure stars at these positions rather than focusing on depth, losing one can be devastating—especially if your late-round running backs can’t pick up the slack. With this approach, your path to victory relies on both health for your top picks and luck in finding running back breakouts as the season unfolds. Dominate your Best Ball and season-long fantasy football leagues with FantasyLabs’ brand-new app that's available in the Apple App Store and on Android! Cons of Zero RB Strategy For a strict Zero RB approach, many fantasy managers recommend holding off until at least the fifth round before selecting your first running back. Of course, there isn’t a fantasy football overlord who will punish you for choosing someone like Kenneth Walker III in the third or fourth round. Ultimately, the smartest draft strategy is to capitalize on whatever value is available during your draft. If an outstanding running back falls into the early rounds, it’s perfectly reasonable to abandon the Zero RB philosophy. However, for those committed to following the strategy no matter what, the usual guidance is to build out your starting wide receivers, quarterback, and tight end before targeting a running back. Top Zero RB Targets in 2025 By the fifth or sixth round, there are still several starting running backs on the board who can offer steady production, even if they aren’t likely to deliver elite numbers. Here are some mid-round options to consider as potential RB1s when using a Zero RB strategy: Isiah Pacheco, RB, Kansas City Chiefs Returning from an injury-filled 2024, Isiah Pacheco enters this season healthy and looks significantly undervalued as a sixth-round pick in fantasy drafts, considering the upside he’s shown during his career. After being chosen in the seventh round of the NFL draft, Pacheco finished 15th in PPR scoring in 2023 and appeared poised for a breakout campaign last year before injuries struck. He’s in a strong position to outpace backfield competitors Kareem Hunt and Elijah Mitchell. Kaleb Johnson, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers Rookie running backs are appealing Zero RB selections in the mid-rounds thanks to their potential for a wide variety of outcomes. Former Iowa back Kaleb Johnson is expected to step right into the early-down role left open by Najee Harris and has a chance to challenge Jaylen Warren for more involvement in the passing game. Best Ball rankings from some of the top industry experts are also available on FantasyLabs. Late Round RB Targets in 2025 Keep in mind, the objective is to fill your bench with high-upside running backs in the later rounds of the draft. Here are several late-round fliers who could develop into weekly RB1 options as the season progresses: Cam Skattebo, RB, New York Giants Yet another rookie back with significant upside, Cam Skattebo has earned rave reviews out of Giants training camp. The Arizona State alum was known for his ability to punch in touchdowns near the goal line in college and seems likely to step into valuable scoring situations right away. If Skattebo can also contribute as a receiver, he has the potential to be an outstanding late-round find. While Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary have both shown flashes during their careers, neither should deter fantasy managers from taking a chance on Skattebo. Jordan Mason, RB, Minnesota Vikings Jordan Mason, once a backup for the 49ers, could see improved touches now that he’s with Minnesota. While Aaron Jones currently leads the Vikings’ backfield, Mason stands to claim a larger role, especially with Jones Sr. now 30 years old. Minnesota bolstered their offensive line in the offseason and is expected to rely more on the ground game as rookie J.J. McCarthy steps in as starting quarterback. Should Jones miss time, Mason would have the chance to break out as a top fantasy running back.