The Miami Marlins signed veteran right hander Randy Wolf to take the rotation spot of reigning National League Rookie of The Year Jose Fernandez. And despite the fact that Wolf struggled in his first start of the 2014 season on Sunday afternoon, he will have another opportunity to prove himself.
Facing the Brewers in the final game of the three game series on Sunday, Wolf gave up six runs, four of which were earned, and walked one while striking out three. Milwaukee was taking advantage of hanging offspeed pitches, and athough he didn't have the best command in his first start since having Tommy John surgery, Miami is giving Wolf another chance.
Wolf will pitch against the Braves on Saturday at Marlins Park.
One rough start hasn't caused the Marlins to reconsider their rotation.
Randy Wolf, tagged for six runs (four earned) in Sunday's loss to the Brewers at Marlins Park, will remain in the starting five. The 37-year-old lefty is scheduled to start on Saturday at home against the Braves.
Wolf pitched well in relief appearances against the Dodgers and Phillies after being signed, and the Marlins are hopeful that he can bounce back.
"He will stay in the rotation and get another start against Atlanta," manager Mike Redmond said. "He was up in the zone. He's a guy who relies on his offspeed pitches and being able to command his curveball and his changeup. It seems like it was a struggle for him. They got on him quickly, and that really ended up being the difference."
After losing Fernandez for the year, the Marlins have been looking for one of their starting pitchers to step up. Tom Koehler, Henderson Alvarez, and Nathan Eovaldi have all pitched well, but without Fernandez, Miami's rotation is seeking a leader.
Prospect Andrew Heaney continues to thrive after being promoted to Triple-A New Orleans, and many expect Heaney to be promoted by mid-June. With the inconsistencies of not only Wolf but also the recently demoted Anthony DeSclafani, Fernandez's absence is being felt a bit too often. Miami's starting pitching depth was praised throughout the offseason, and should Wolf struggle again, the Marlins may have to look for a new internal solution.