The Miami Marlins have confirmed a one-year contract with right-handed reliever Pete Fairbanks, marking a significant addition to their bullpen. The announcement was made on Sunday, following Fairbanks’ impressive performance with the Tampa Bay Rays last season.
Fairbanks, 32, enjoyed a career year in 2023, making a remarkable 61 appearances and finishing with a record of 4-5 and a 2.83 ERA. He achieved a personal best with 27 saves in 32 opportunities, while allowing seven home runs and a total of 45 hits over 60.1 innings pitched. His contributions placed him third among American League relievers in games finished, with 48, and seventh in saves.
Over his seven seasons with the Rays, Fairbanks compiled a record of 20-22 and maintained a solid 2.98 ERA. Throughout his career, he has recorded 96 walks and 317 strikeouts in 267 appearances. Notably, he has made 12 postseason appearances, including nine during Tampa Bay’s run to the World Series in 2020.
The Rays opted not to exercise an $11 million option on Fairbanks last month, a decision that made him a free agent. As part of the contract, he received a $1 million buyout from Tampa Bay.
The Marlins are looking to enhance their pitching depth with this acquisition, and Fairbanks’ proven track record in high-pressure situations could be a valuable asset as they aim for a stronger performance in the upcoming season.
