Marlins acquire Roddery Muñoz for cash considerations

The Miami Marlins swung another tiny trade on Wednesday, acquiring Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Roddery Muñoz for cash considerations, as first reported by Alex Stumpf of DK Pittsburgh Sports. The Marlins designated fellow righty Ryan Jensen to make room for him on their 40-man roster.

The Dominican pitcher had spent his entire professional career with the Atlanta Braves organization before moving around this past year. He was the eighth-ranked prospect in the Braves system entering 2023, per FanGraphs. Muñoz was claimed off waivers by the Washington Nationals on July 17 and stuck with their Triple-A affiliate for the remainder of the season (used primarily as a starter). The Pirates claimed Muñoz off waivers on December 1, only to DFA him themselves this past Friday.

In 287 total innings pitched in the minor leagues (88 G/56 GS), Muñoz has a 5.02 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and 317 K. His 2023 performance was slightly below that standard (5.42 ERA, 1.58 WHIP, 81 K in 78.0 IP) and that's despite being helped by a midseason FCL rehab assignment.

With Triple-A Rochester, Muñoz's pitch mix was comprised of 47% fastballs (94.7 mph average velocity), 34% sliders (90.1 mph) and 19% changeups (89.8 mph).

The Braves actually called up Muñoz to the big leagues for a couple days last season, but he didn't make an appearance. He turns 24 in April and has two minor league options left.

Although Muñoz made nine straight starts to end the season, he rarely worked more than twice through an opposing lineup and continued to struggle against lefties (had issues with both walks and home runs). He profiles as a middle reliever moving forward.

Fun biographical note: Muñoz has a twin brother, Rolddy Muñoz, who's also a right-handed pitcher. Rolddy is still with the Braves.

The Marlins claimed Jensen off waivers from the Seattle Mariners on November 27. He's a former first-round draft pick of the Chicago Cubs, but control problems have stunted his progress, including a 17.4% walk rate last season. The Marlins are hoping he'll clear waivers this time, allowing them to outright him to the minors and retain control over him entering 2024.

Photo courtesy of Rome Emperors