Paddack's Long-Awaited Marlins Debut Hits a Snag
MIAMI - It's been a long journey back for Chris Paddack, who last suited up for the Marlins organization over 3,500 days ago. Originally drafted in the eighth round of the 2015 MLB Draft, Paddack was traded to the Padres for All-Star closer Fernando Rodney, a move aimed at propelling Miami into the postseason.
However, the plan didn't pan out as expected, with Rodney struggling and the Marlins missing the playoffs. Meanwhile, Paddack blossomed into a top prospect and established himself in the majors.
Fast forward to now, and Paddack finally took the mound for Miami, making his debut in a 9-4 loss to the Chicago White Sox. Despite a promising start, where he tossed two perfect innings with three strikeouts, things unraveled quickly. After a leadoff double in the third, a series of unfortunate events, including a bloop and a swinging bunt, set the stage for a three-run homer by Austin Hays.
Marlins manager Clayton McCullough remarked, "He got off to a really great start, and then a two-out bloop, a swinging bunt, and then Hays got a ball and elevated it for a home run.”
Despite the rough outing, Paddack's 2.41 expected FIP suggests some tough luck played a role. Reflecting on the game, Paddack said, “In this game, I try not to think about good versus bad luck... I thought they put together some really good at-bats.”
The fourth inning brought more trouble with a grand slam by Miguel Vargas, tying a franchise record for most earned runs allowed by a pitcher in their Marlins debut. Paddack finished with a line of 4 IP, 8 H, 8 ER, 6 SO, 0 BB.
After the game, Paddack shared his mindset moving forward. “Following a start like this, I usually write down all the negative thoughts... then I rip it up and throw it in the trash.” He's set to face the Yankees next, emphasizing the importance of sticking to his routine.
On a brighter note, Paddack highlighted the effectiveness of his new sweeper and was pleased with his control, issuing no walks. Offensively, Liam Hicks provided a spark with his second homer of the season, supported by RBI singles from Hicks and Jakob Marsee.
Despite the loss, the Marlins are off to a solid start at 3-1, while the White Sox notched their first win. Miami will look to bounce back with Janson Junk making his season debut against Erick Fedde on Tuesday. First pitch is at 6:40 pm.