New York Yankee’s Stephen Tarpley Traded to Miami Marlins
The New York Yankees have traded left-handed pitcher Stephen Tarpley to the Miami Marlins. The Yankees PR Department Twitter account made the announcement on Wednesday, stating that the Yanks will trade Tarpley to Miami in exchange for Minor League third baseman James Nelson. The San Diego Tribune reported this afternoon, that the Yankees will also be receiving $50,000 from the Marlins, payable on February 15th. This move comes just days after the Yankees designated Tarpley for assignment.
The @Yankees announced today that they have acquired minor league 3B James Nelson and cash considerations from the Miami Marlins in exchange for LHP Stephen Tarpley.
— Yankees PR Dept. (@YankeesPR) January 15, 2020
Yankee’s Outlook
This move adds depth at third base for the Yankees, a position that raises some concerns heading into the season. Rookie phenom Miguel Andujar is still recovering from right labrum surgery and will begin the season on the IL. There is also the uncertainty that Gio Urshela will be able to replicate his success at the plate from last year. Urshela stepped into the third base role last season with the injury to Andujar, and put up career numbers. James Nelson was drafted back in 2016 in the 15th round. He spent the 2019 season in Class A Jupiter of the Florida State League. According to baseball-reference.com, he recorded a .228 AVG. with 36 Doubles and .280 SLG in 470 plate appearances.
Marlin’s Outlook
Miami will gain a left-handed pitcher with some big league experience, having logged time coming out of the bullpen toward the end of last season with the Yankees. The Marlins will most likely utilize Tarpley in a similar role, limiting his innings until he can prove himself. Further upside for the 26-year-old, is a mid 90’s fastball, with a sharp slider. He comes with minor league options as well and is not arbitration-eligible until 2023. Tarpley had a 1-0 record, a 6.93 ERA in 24.2 innings, per baseball-reference.com.
Spring training is set to begin in February when both clubs’ pitchers and catchers due to report on the 12th and position players on the 17th.
