The Miami Marlins bullpen might possess an undisclosed advantage.
Could there be a more effective closer than Miami Marlins’ ninth-inning specialist Tanner Scott? As the Marlins strive to elevate their game, there’s intriguing news about Anthony Bender’s return. The pitcher, who underwent Tommy John Surgery, is set to make his comeback this season and has already made appearances during Spring Training.
Former closer Anthony Bender is poised to rejoin the Miami Marlins this season after recovering from Tommy John Surgery. Bender had an impressive tenure with the Marlins before his injury. In 2021, he boasted a 2.79 ERA/3.19 FIP, with 10.4 K/9 and 2.9 BB/9 across 60 games and 61.1 innings pitched. Despite a slight dip in performance in 2022 with a 3.26 ERA/4.77 FIP, he still managed 7.9 K/9 and 3.7 BB/9 in 22 games and 19.1 innings pitched, while securing 3 saves in 2021 and 6 in 2022, except for the elevated FIP in 2022.
The 29-year-old pitcher is eager to return to the mound, showcasing a 96.9 mph sinker along with a slider, his go-to pitch, which he uses sparingly. Interestingly, Bender was close to returning during last season’s playoffs and would have pitched in the 2023 National League Wild Card playoffs against the Philadelphia Phillies, but unfortunately, he couldn’t make it.
Catcher Christian Bethancourt, acquired earlier in the off-season, expressed his confidence in Bender’s pitching prowess, highlighting his impressive arsenal and velocity, while noting slight adjustment issues typical of pitchers with Bender’s style.
Looking ahead to 2024, there’s considerable potential for Anthony Bender. While he may not immediately assume the closer’s role unless unforeseen circumstances arise such as Tanner Scott’s trade before the deadline, Bender is anticipated to contribute significantly in late-game situations and emerge as a key figure in the team’s pitching rotation.
