Marlins Bring Back Familiar Face in Chris Paddack, Signaling a Focus on Pitching Depth
The Miami Marlins are bolstering their pitching staff with the signing of veteran right-hander Chris Paddack, a move that reunites the team with a player they originally drafted in 2015. The one-year, $4 million deal (with $500,000 in potential incentives) comes as the Marlins navigate a reshaped rotation following offseason trades.
A Full-Circle Moment for Paddack
Paddack’s journey has come full circle. Initially selected by the Marlins in the eighth round of the 2015 MLB Draft, he was quickly traded to the San Diego Padres a year later in exchange for All-Star closer Fernando Rodney. Now, he returns to Miami looking to provide stability to a rotation that has seen significant changes. He tossed a career-high 158 innings in 2025 with the Twins and Tigers, posting a 5.35 ERA and 112 strikeouts.
Addressing Rotation Concerns After Offseason Moves
The Marlins have been active this offseason, trading away Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers, creating a clear need for pitching depth. This signing, along with the earlier addition of reliever Pete Fairbanks and Christopher Morel, demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing those concerns. The team used 15 different starting pitchers in 2025, including four openers, highlighting the need for reliable arms.
Paddack’s Profile: A Reliable Back-End Option
While his 2025 season saw a slight dip in performance, Paddack has established himself as a dependable back-end starter. His career 4.64 ERA and 32-36 record don’t tell the whole story. He consistently limits walks (career 5.2 percent walk rate) and induces weak contact (30.4 percent chase rate). A previous 2019 rookie season with a 3.33 ERA and 153 strikeouts shows the potential he still possesses.
Evolving Arsenal and a Return to Form?
Paddack’s pitching arsenal has expanded over his career. Starting as a three-pitch pitcher (four-seamer, changeup, and curveball), he now utilizes six different pitch types, including a slider, cutter, and sinker. This evolution suggests he’s actively working to refine his approach and potentially regain his earlier form. His strikeout rate, which peaked at 26.9 percent as a rookie, dipped to 16.7 percent last season, but there’s optimism he can improve in that area.
Looking Ahead: Marlins’ Pitching Outlook for 2026
The Marlins’ camp will feature a mix of established veterans and promising prospects. Sandy Alcantara and Eury Pérez are expected to anchor the rotation, with Max Meyer and Braxton Garrett too poised to contribute following their respective surgeries. Top prospects Thomas White (MLB Pipeline’s No. 17 overall prospect) and Robby Snelling (No. 39 overall) will also be in the mix as non-roster invitees. Other starting-pitching options include right-handers Janson Junk, Bradley Blalock, Ryan Gusto and Adam Mazur, as well as left-handers Dax Fulton.
FAQ
Q: How long is Chris Paddack’s contract with the Marlins?
A: Paddack has signed a one-year contract with the Marlins, worth $4 million plus $500,000 in incentives.
Q: Where did Chris Paddack play before joining the Marlins?
A: Paddack previously played for the San Diego Padres, Minnesota Twins, and Detroit Tigers.
Q: What is the Marlins’ current pitching depth situation?
A: The Marlins have been rebuilding their pitching rotation after trading away Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers.
Q: What are the Marlins’ expectations for Paddack?
A: The Marlins are hoping Paddack can provide reliable innings and contribute as a back-end starter.
Did you know? Chris Paddack underwent Tommy John surgery in 2016 after being traded to the Padres.
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