Marlins Might Search for a Starting Pitcher in Free Agency

The Miami Marlins have spent years developing starting pitchers, but the organization could be approaching a point where adding an established veteran makes sense.

After an 80-82 finish in 2026, Miami has reason to believe it can compete for a playoff spot next season. Sandy Alcantara is back, Eury Perez remains one of baseball's most exciting young arms, and the rotation has several other intriguing possibilities.

Still, the Marlins could use another starter. The question is whether Peter Bendix and the front office would be willing to spend some money to address that need.

Miami isn't likely to pursue any really expensive names in free agency, but there are several pitchers who could fit the organization's budget without requiring a massive financial commitment.

Mize might be the most interesting candidate for Miami. The former No. 1 overall pick has had an inconsistent career, but he has shown the ability to be an effective member of the rotation.

Mize's 2026 season offered reasons for optimism, as he continued to demonstrate the potential that made him one of baseball's top pitching prospects. at one time However, injuries and inconsistency have prevented him from establishing himself as a dependable frontline starter.

At 29, Mize still has time to put everything together. For Miami, the appeal would be acquiring a pitcher with considerable upside without paying the price associated with an established ace.

Conversely, Nick Martinez might be the safest option of the three. The veteran right-hander has established himself as a versatile pitcher capable of working as a starter or out of the bullpen. His experience in both roles could make him an attractive addition to manager Clayton McCullough's staff.

Martinez also has a connection to South Florida, having been born in Miami. He could be an appealing addition if the Marlins want to improve their rotation without making a lengthy commitment. His experience would also be valuable for a young pitching staff.

Southpaw Trevor Rogers would be the most interesting storyline. The former Marlins All-Star was traded to Baltimore in 2024, and his departure marked another chapter in Miami's history of trading established players.

However, Rogers is now a potential free-agent target, creating the possibility of a reunion.

The left-hander has already demonstrated that he can be an effective major league starter, and a return to Miami could provide the organization with another option who has experience pitching at a high level.

Rogers is still relatively young, and the Marlins know him well.

Ultimately, the Marlins don't need to spend a fortune to improve their rotation; they simply need to identify the right opportunity. If Miami is serious about competing in 2027, adding a veteran starter could be a reasonable investment. The question is whether the front office will be willing to make that investment this winter.

Now entering free agency, Rogers presents Miami with a compelling reunion opportunity. Given his proven ability as a major league starter and his familiarity with the organization, bringing the young southpaw back would add a proven, reliable arm to the rotation.

If the team prefers a short-term commitment to a veteran, pitchers like Lucas Giolito and Aaron Civale are additional candidates to consider.

Upgrading the rotation doesn't require a lavish expenditure—it just takes capitalizing on the right match. The true test is whether management will commit the necessary resources this offseason.