Miami Marlins: Jordan Yamamoto could be a steal

An overlooked part of the Miami Marlins return from the Milwaukee Brewers for Christian Yelich, Jordan Yamamoto could become a key part of the future.

When the Miami Marlins sent Christian Yelich to the Milwaukee Brewers, they received what was considered to be a somewhat underwhelming return. Lewis Brinson and Monte Harrison were considered to be the keys to the trade, along with intriguing pieces in Isan Diaz and Jordan Yamamoto. Of those prospects, Yamamoto probably had the fewest expectations, the least known of the quartet sent to Miami for the current NL MVP.

In the end, when the final tally on the trade is determined, Yamamoto may end up being the surprising key to the deal. The former 12th round draft pick put together an impressive 2018 campaign for his new franchise, with a 6-1 record, along with a 1.83 ERA and a 0.830 WHiP. Over 68.2 innings across three levels, Yamamoto struck out 85 batters with only 14 walk, and allowed only two homers.

There are questions as to what Yamamoto’s future role will end up being. At six feet tall and 185 pounds, his slight frame leads some evaluators to think that he will be a future reliever. He also lacks that one pitch that is considered to be a plus offering, helping add to that prognostication.

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However, there is no question that he has gotten the most out of his ability. His raw stuff may not be the most impressive, as Yamamoto has a fastball that sits in the low 90s, but he compensates for that velocity with incredible spin. His developing changeup shows plenty of promise, especially as he has a knack for knowing how to pitch. Add in a solid breaking ball, and Yamamoto becomes an even more intriguing option.

His dominance from last year continued into the Arizona Fall League. Over his six starts, he has posted a 3-0 record, with a 2.08 ERA and a 1.077 WHiP. In 26 innings, he has struck out 27 batters, albeit with a relatively high (for him) 13 walks. One would expect his command to improve in time.

The biggest key for Yamamoto may be his health. After throwing over 110 innings in 2016 and 2017, he missed time with shoulder issues that cost him time at the start of the season. Should he be able to remain healthy in 2019, and he continues to impress, a promotion to AAA would not be outside the realm of possibility, leaving Yamamoto knocking on the door for the 2020 campaign.

Even though Jordan Yamamoto may not be a top of the rotation starter, he could be a surprising asset for the Miami Marlins. All he has done is impress at every level so far in his career.