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While the Miami Marlins continue to search for a veteran starting pitcher available via a trade, the organization has slotted Jacob Turner into the starting rotation. Turner will serve as the team's fifth starter and will make his first post All-Star break start against the Atlanta Braves.
Fox Sports' Christina De Nicola was among the first to report Turner's return on Twitter.
#Marlins will go with Jacob Turner as fifth starter. #MLB
— Christina De Nicola (@CDeNicola13) July 18, 2014
Turner seemingly lost his spot in the rotation after Miami promoted Andrew Heaney and Anthony DeSclafani in a pair of roster moves at the end of June. He served as the team's long reliever and pitched effectively out of the bullpen.
Turner has posted a 2-6 record with a 6.22 ERA and 3.83 FIP in 63 and two third innings pitched. As he has throughout the course of his young career, Turner has at times had difficulty consistently throwing strikes but has posted a 2.40 BB/9 rate, down from 4.12 in 2013.
The Marlins have been seeking consistency from the back of the starting rotation because of Tom Koehler's late inning struggles and the lack of productivity from several young internal options.
Miami went into the break with a four man rotation, and it was expected Turner would get the opportunity if a move was not made. The Marlins are rightfully buying time by placing Turner back in the rotation, but should he struggle, Brad Penny or even DeSclafani could be called upon.
Actively looking to add a starting pitcher, the Marlins have yet to find the ideal arm. The organization is reportedly seeking a starter who would be of service to the team for more than one season.
DeSclafani recalled, Lucas optioned
ROSTER MOVES: • RHP @ADeSclafani recalled from AAA @zephyrsbaseball • INF Ed Lucas optioned to NOLA
— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) July 20, 2014
In order to add a fresh arm to the bullpen, the Marlins recalled Anthony DeSclafani from Triple-A New Orleans on Sunday.
Ed Lucas was optioned to Triple-A in the corresponding move. Demoting Lucas was justified because of the addition of Jordany Valdespin and Lucas' struggles at the plate. Lucas batted .239/.276/.277 in 51 games.
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