The Baltimore Orioles have traded Tanner Scott and Cole Sulser to the Miami Marlins. It comes as a surprise move that caught fans off-guard. In return, the team gets two low level prospects in left-handed pitcher Antonio Velez, outfielder Kevin Guerrero.
Also in the deal will be a competitive balance B draft pick and a player to be named later. The competitive balance will be the 67th pick, giving the Orioles five picks in the top 75 in this year’s draft.
Uncertain Bullpen
This trade means that Baltimore’s bullpen is in even more disarray. Now they will need a closer and the option using the closer-by-committee has yet to be decided. Also with the trade, it appears that Cionel Pérez who has had an outstanding camp will make the club. He will be joining Paul Fry as the only left-handers on the roster and both will get save opportunities. Dillon Tate and Jorge López could also be getting save chances as this bullpen is undergoing an extreme makeover.
What the Marlins get
Scott did some pitching as a setup man for Baltimore in 2021. He logged 16 holds and although his 5.17 ERA was high, he did get many ground-ball outs in critical situations. He dealt with a knee sprain late in the season and that led to his ERA going from 3.07 to 5.17 in a span of 16 games. The lefty will certainly be in the mix for some late-inning work with them. With one of the better pitching coaches in Mel Stottlemyre Jr., he could certainly work on Scott’s control and delivery.
Sulser at age 32, had a breakout 2021 season. He had 2.70 ERA with 73 strikeouts against 23 walks over 63 1/3 innings in 60 relief appearances. He converted eight saves in 11 opportunities and brings a high strikeout rate who consistently can pitch in tense situations. His splitter pitch allows him to be effective at getting out left-handers as well as right-handers.
Marlins Bullpen Set
The Orioles’ trade of relievers Tanner Scott and Cole Sulser now solidifies the Marlins bullpen. Before the MLB lockout, it was known that the bullpen was an immediate need for them. In Sulser, the Marlins now have a new closer. Dylan Floro is expected to start the season on the injured list.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
Players Mentioned:
Tanner Scott, Cole Sulser, Antonio Velez, Kevin Guerrero, Cionel Pérez, Paul Fry, Dillon Tate, Dylan Floro
