The Miami Marlins continue to make moves as the Winter Meetings go on. Around the same time that they brought in free agent starter Jeff Locke, Miami also decided to bring back one of their own. Veteran reliever Dustin McGowan will reportedly return to the Marlins on a one-year deal in 2017. Joe Frisaro of MLB.com had the report first.
Dustin McGowan returns to Miami with 1-year MLB deal @JoeFrisaro on it
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 7, 2016
Dustin McGowan Returns to Marlins
McGowan, 34, made his MLB debut for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2005. He broke into the league as a starter, but injuries limited his effectiveness and eventually forced him to move into a bullpen role.
After spending seven frustrating years with the Blue Jays, McGowan signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for the 2015 season. A horrible campaign saw McGowan finish with a 6.94 ERA, and the Phillies declined to bring him back. He landed with the Marlins on a minor league contract last season, and found new life with the Fish.
Across 55 appearances and 67 innings, McGowan logged a 2.82 ERA and 63 strikeouts, his highest total since 2008 His ERA and WHIP (1.22) represented his best marks in those categories since 2013. If he can continue his newfound success, he’ll be a reliable and cheap option for the Marlins next season.
Miami is a young club on the verge of contending, and they are looking to potentially bring in some big pieces. Kenley Jansen is rumored to be interested in reuniting with Marlins manger Don Mattingly, and Miami could bring in a bat or two as well. Signing inexpensive, yet reliable, players like McGowan will allow them to spend big on the players that will push them over the edge.
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