Marlins don’t want Fernandez to surpass 180 innings

Miami wants to keep ace Jose Fernandez under 180 innings this season and is on pace to do so, according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi.

Fernandez, who isn’t far removed from season-ending Tommy John surgery, has skipped several starts this season in order to ensure he doesn’t surpass his set limit.

When Fernandez takes the mound against the Reds on Thursday night, it will be the third time he pitches on nine days rest this season, according to Morosi.

Fernandez has been Miami’s most effective starter this season, pitching to a 2.81 ERA and 2.21 FIP over 137.2 innings. He has pitched 51.2 and 64.2 innings the last two seasons, respectively.

If the Marlins earn one of two Wild Card spots in the National League, Fernandez will almost certainly pitch in the one game playoff.

After watching Stephen Strasbug and Matt Harvey be plagued by issues surrounding the surgery and its subsequent limitations, the Marlins are taking a distinct approach with their ace.