Following the inconsistencies of both Mike Dunn and Dan Jennings out of the bullpen, the Miami Marlins acquired left-handed reliever Donnie Joseph from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for cash considerations on Monday afternoon. Tom D'Angelo of the Palm Beach Post was among the first to report the news.
#Marlins acquire LH reliever Donnie Joseph from Royals 4 cash considerations. Joseph optioned to NOLA. Brent Keys designated for assignment
— Tom D'Angelo (@tomdangelo44) June 30, 2014
Joseph has spent most of the 2014 season in Triple-A, where he was 1-1 with a 3.86 ERA and 5.36 FIP in 25 and two thirds innings pitched. He made one appearance with the Royals in the middle of June, during which he gave up six runs to the Detroit Tigers in two thirds of an inning.
Miami's bullpen lacks a lefty specialist, and while Joseph hasn't yielded a hit to a left-handed hitter in three major league innings over the past two years, Joseph may prove to be a more valuable option than Jennings in a middle relief role moving forward.
Joseph will begin his Marlins career in Triple-A, but if he pitches well, may receive an opportunity quickly. Brent Keys was designated for assignment to make room for Joseph on the roster.
Stay tuned to Fish Stripes for updates.