Miami Marlins make somewhat notable move with Garrett Hampson

The Miami Marlins have been relatively quiet in free agency.

While they have been linked to the likes of Alex Reyes and Michael Conforto, the Marlins have not done much. The likes of Chi Chi Rodriguez, Austin Allen, and Alex De Goti are not about to put visions of championship banners in the dreams of the fanbase. In fact, the Marlins remain one of two teams not to sign a free agent to a major league contract.

Miami Marlins hope change of scenery works for Garrett Hampson

That somewhat changed on Sunday. Although the Marlins are still yet to sign anyone to a major league contract, they did add a notable player. According to Ken Rosenthal, former Rockies prospect Garrett Hampson is heading to Miami on a minor league deal.

Hampson had been well regarded prospect, hovering around the edges of the top 100 lists. His ability to make contact, excellent speed, and high on base percentage made him an intriguing prospect for the Rockies, someone that could be an answer atop the lineup.

That never came to pass. Hampson struggled during his time in the majors, posting a .235/.296/.370 batting line with 26 homers and 44 doubles in his 1279 plate appearances while stealing 52 bases. Not only has he struck out at a higher rate than the major league average, but he has not hit the ball hard at all when he has made contact.

At 28 years old, it is possible that Hampson can still become the player that he was expected to be in the minors. He is still young enough to live up to that potential and become a solid major league option. Maybe a change of scenery was all that he needed. The Marlins are hoping that is the case.

The Miami Marlins are giving Garrett Hampson a chance to prove himself. It could be that he just needs to get away from Colorado.