Marlins reportedly eyeing potential free-agent bargain in Patrick Sandoval

The Miami Marlins may be looking at a possible free-agent bargain to improve their rotation depth.

According to Kevin Barral of Fish on First, the Marlins are interested in pitcher Patrick Sandoval. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on Wednesday that several teams were interested in Sandoval, regarding him as an intriguing bounce-back option.

Sandoval appeared to be on his way toward becoming a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter. He posted a 3.17 ERA and a 1.290 WHIP over his 235.2 innings between 2021 and 2022, striking out 245 batters with 96 walks. His production slipped in 2023, but the hope was that he would return to form in 2024.

Instead, Sandoval struggled through 16 appearances before landing on the Injured List with a strained left elbow. He would undergo an internal brace procedure in June 2024 but missed the entire 2025 season. Left biceps tightness pushed back Sandoval's return in 2026 as he made his season debut on July 9. He continued to struggle in his first season back from elbow surgery, posting a 5.12 ERA and a 1.678 WHIP over his 70.1 innings, striking out 73 batters with 23 walks.

Patrick Sandoval could be worth the gamble for Miami Marlins

The Marlins have not spent on pitching in free agency since Bruce Sherman purchased the franchise in 2017. Chris Paddack (2026), Cal Quantrill (2025) and Johnny Cueto (2023). All three pitchers signed one-year contracts, with Cueto's $8.5 million salary the most the Marlins had spent. Sandoval, despite his recent struggles and injury woes, may receive a contract similar to Cueto.

The Marlins have a strong trio atop the rotation in Sandy Alcantara, Eury Perez and Max Meyer. The rest of the rotation is filled with long reliever/spot starter types. Top prospects Noble Meyer, Robby Snelling and Thomas White have battled injuries, and Perez and Meyer missed time in 2026. If Sandoval can remain healthy and return to form as a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter, he could be what the Marlins need.