Miami Marlins top ten prospects for 2020

1. Sixto Sanchez

Minors (A+, AA): 114 innings, 8-6 record, 2.76 ERA, 1.070 WHiP, 21 walks, 103 strikeouts

Acquired as part of the package that sent J.T. Realmuto to the Phillies, Sixto Sanchez could be the ace that the Miami Marlins have been looking for since the untimely passing of Jose Fernandez.

A consensus top 30 prospect prior to the 2019 campaign, Sanchez has seemingly been on the prospect radar forever. He exploded on the scene in 2016 when he won the Gulf Coast League ERA title, and has continued to impress as he has continued to rise through the minors.

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Not only does Sanchez have top of the rotation stuff, but he has complete command of his arsenal. He has an impressive fastball that can reach triple digits, and is thrown as either a two seam or four seam offering. Both pitches have plenty of sink, as opponents typically hit the pitch into the ground if they do manage to make contact. Sanchez has displayed an ability to add or subtract velocity from his curve, and has a great feel for his changeup. All three, or four, pitches have the potential to be plus offerings at minimum, with the fastball a truly special pitch.

At this point, the biggest obstacle facing Sanchez is his health. He was shut down for a portion of 2018 with elbow inflammation, and his detractors are quick to point to his smaller frame as a potential issue. However, he has a great deal of strength, allowing him to maintain his velocity late into games and will help him remain in the rotation for years to come.

Sixto Sanchez has the potential to be the next great top of the rotation starter for the Miami Marlins. If they are going to rebuild their way back into contention, he will need to live up to that potential.