The Miami Marlins had identified upgrading their bullpen as one of their main priorities this offseason. Despite their surprising success in 2020, and their advancement to the NLDS, the Marlins had plenty of holes to fill on their roster. Improving their bullpen was just one area that needed attention.
The Marlins made another move to improve that area of the roster on Friday. They have signed Anthony Bass to a two year deal worth $5 million, with a team option for 2023.
Per sources Miami Marlins are in agreement with Free Agent Relief Pitcher Anthony Bass.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) January 22, 2021
Bass had a solid year for the Blue Jays in 2020, emerging as their closer when Ken Giles was injured. He posted a 3.51 ERA and a 1.013 WHiP over his 25.2 innings, striking out 21 batters with nine walks. Bass also notched seven saves and four holds last year as he pitched in several different roles.
Adding Bass, along with fellow free agent signee Ross Detwiler, should help improve an underwhelming relief corps. Their -1.4 fWAR was the worst in the National League, and 29th in the majors. Miami relievers combined for a 5.50 ERA and a 1.55 WHiP, striking out just 18.1% of batters faced.
While Bass is not exactly going to help that strikeout rate, he can improve the numbers in every other facet. As a ground ball specialist, he has the potential to get that key ground ball for an inning ending double play or to stifle a rally.
Bass also could fill the void in the ninth inning. While the Marlins are still linked to 2020 closer Brandon Kintzler, nothing has happened there. It is possible that Miami finds a low cost option to handle the ninth, but if nothing materializes, Bass could be the fallback plan.
The Miami Marlins had stated that the bullpen would be a focus this offseason. They have made another move to address the relief corps by bringing in Anthony Bass.