Offishial news, 12/1/20: Number switches; Cimber ready to work

Uniform number shuffle

Monday’s main story was the acquisition of right-handed reliever Adam Cimber and subsequent DFA of José Ureña. But in making those transactions official, the Marlins also updated the uniform numbers for a handful of their major league players.

• The most predictable change of them all, Sixto Sánchez will adopt No. 45 next season (previously No. 73). The young starter idolizes Hall of Famer Pedro Martínez, who famously wore that number. For years, Sánchez has had it tattooed on his neck.
• Nick Neidert is dropping down from No. 59 to No. 29, last worn by Francisco Cervelli. Cervelli announced his retirement two months ago.
• Richard Bleier goes from No. 35 to No. 48—that was made available when Mike Morin elected free agency. In turn, Alex Vesia is shedding No. 96 and taking Bleier’s old number. In 2020, Vesia became the only player in Marlins history to wear No. 96 during a regular season game.
• Monte Harrison will be No. 3 moving forward, matching the digit in his social media account names, instead of No. 4.
• Former No. 39 James Hoyt has chosen No. 51, which briefly belonged to Justin Shafer last summer.
• The numbers of Jazz Chisholm (No. 70) and Trevor Rogers (No. 95) appear to still be in flux. Both are temporarily listed as No. 00. Seems like a good time to mention that none of these numbers are set in stone, subject to change at any point before or even during spring training.

Walk-off links

• Cimber’s message to Marlins fans: “I’m beyond grateful for this next chapter God’s got for me, and couldn’t be more psyched to be joining the Marlins and being a part of the energy they’re building down in Miami. Time to work!”

• Even if Cimber struggles out of the chute with his new squad, there’s no need for a panic move—he’s got three minor league options remaining.
• FOX Sports Florida’s Jessica Blaylock hopped on the Fish Across the Pond podcast for a wide-ranging conversation.
• Expect a new Offishial Show episode on Thursday morning in reaction to the MLB non-tender deadline. Subscribe if you don’t already!
• Listen to Marlins CEO Derek Jeter and shortstop prospect José Salas on the Miami Marlins Hot Stove Show today during the 5 p.m. hour (940 WINZ).
• Veteran hitter Howie Kendrick has another year left in him, per Britt Ghiroli of The Athletic. I thought he made a ton of sense for the Marlins last winter. Now, they have an opportunity to buy low on him following a disappointing, injury-shortened 2020.