If Max Meyer does sign with the Miami Marlins, it may not take long before he makes his debut.
Typically, when a team signs a player, they spend some time in the minors before making their major league debut. It is a chance for players to learn what it takes to be a professional, to get their feet wet and develop before being thrown into the fire of the majors. However, with the minor league season essentially canceled in 2020, players will not have that chance.
Given the circumstances, the Miami Marlins could have a different plan for the third overall selection, Max Meyer. Should he sign, he may be added to the 60 man roster, making his debut this year.
Marlins are strongly considering and even likely to include No. 3 overall pick Max Meyer, flame-throwing U. of Minnesota RHP, in their 60-player pool at camp. assuming he signs. He is very close to a deal. They believe he could be quick to the majors.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) June 26, 2020
It was not unheard of for players to skip the minors and go straight to the majors. The likes of Dave Winfield, Jim Abbott, and John Olerud never appeared in the minors before making their debut.
Although times have changed, and everyone gets a taste of the minors these days, players were still able to make their debut in the year they got drafted. Brandon Finnegan was a key part of the Royals bullpen in 2014, helping their playoff push and even found success in the postseason. It is possible.
That may be the path that the Marlins put Meyer on, at least for 2020. While he was drafted as a starter, and should ultimately end up as a part of the rotation, Meyers could make an impact as a reliever this year. Miami’s bullpen has numerous holes, and giving the third overall selection a chance to get his bearings as a reliever could pay dividends down the road.
Depending on how he performs, it is possible that Meyer never pitches in the minors. He is already considered to have two plus pitches with his fastball and slider, while his changeup makes a solid third offering. Meyer has a tenacity that teams love, and a smooth delivery that bodes well for his future regardless of his size. It is not a wonder that the Marlins think he could contribute at the major league level in short order.
That time could come as soon as this year. Considering that there will not be a minor league season, Max Meyer could be the next pitcher to debut without ever pitching in the minors.