Can Devin Smeltzer help slumping Marlins bullpen?

[Ely Sussman]

Big Fish Small Pod for Friday, April 19

Ely Sussman shares an interesting adjustment that Miami Marlins left-hander Devin Smeltzer has made while pitching out of the Triple-A Jacksonville bullpen. Would Smeltzer be an upgrade over some of the Marlins' current relievers?

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Through six Triple-A appearances this season (all in relief), Smeltzer has pitched to a 1.08 ERA and 0.96 WHIP with 11 strikeouts in 8 ⅓ innings pitched. For context, he was used exclusively as a starter by the Jumbo Shrimp in 2023.

Following the recommendation of Marlins pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre Jr., Smeltzer has changed his delivery. His vertical release point has noticeably dropped and he has increased the extension he gets toward home plate. The new mechanics have diminished his fastball velocity even more—after averaging 89.0 mph on his heater as a Marlin in 2023, he's currently averaging 86.5 mph. However, that trade-off could be worth it if it translates to added deception and movement.

The only left-handed relievers in the Marlins bullpen are Tanner Scott and Andrew Nardi, both of whom have struggled so far this year.

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