Marlins claim LHP Josh D. Smith from Reds

Well, it’s official: the Marlins placed Garrett Cooper, Harold Ramirez and José Ureña on the injured list. They each reportedly learned Sunday morning that they tested positive for COVID-19. At least seven new players staying with the team in Philadelphia learned Monday that they tested positive as well, and there is another round of results due back in a matter of hours. The intriguing and confident group that defeated the Phillies in two out of three games over the weekend is withering away.

Quickly composing themselves in order to resume the 2020 season, the Marlins are active on the waiver wire. They scooped up right-handed reliever Justin Shafer from the Reds, and now his former teammate, lefty Josh D. Smith.

If the latter name sounds familiar, that could be because you’re confusing him with Marlins right-hander Josh A. Smith. Or it could be because you are a die-hard Marlins fan and remember that Josh D. actually pitched for the club last September! He did not impress, unfortunately—8.31 ERA, 5.06 FIP, 4.1 IP in 6 G.

Claiming Shafer and Smith puts them both on the Marlins 40-man roster. They have two remaining minor league options apiece. Seeing as how they trained with another major league organization throughout summer camp, they appear to be likely candidates to join the active roster immediately. Understandably, it is impossible to speculate about their roles with the Fish until more of the COVID-positive players are identified (in other words, who are they replacing?).

Here are some more players around the league who were recently designated for assignment:

• 3B Cheslor Cuthbert (White Sox)
• INF Arquimedes Gamboa (Phillies)
• RHP Mike Morin (Brewers)
• OF José Siri (Giants)
• INF Kean Wong (Giants)

As the saying goes, beggars can’t be choosers.