Surprising Miami Marlins Starting Pitcher Is Dealing To Start Spring Training
The Miami Marlins will need some pitching to step up if they want to make the playoffs like they did a year ago.
Fans in attendance to see some of the Marlins' Spring Training action are seeing some of the Florida heat transpire on the mound, however, and from a surprising source.
Miami Marlins starting pitcher A.J. Puk has been on fire in his two appearances to start Spring Training. He has a 0.00 ERA in his two starts, pitching five innings with only one hit, striking out nine batters and walking just three. He has thrown strikes on 63% of his pitches - Puk's transition back to a starting pitcher seems to be going well.
“It's always been the back of my mind, not really having a chance in the big leagues to get a start,” Puk told MLB.com. “So I've got another opportunity right now, and I'm just going to try to make the most of it.”
In 2023, Puk had a 7-5 record on the season, working in relief. He recorded a 3.97 ERA over his 56.2 innings pitched, 78 strikeouts, and a 1.18 WHIP.
“That first time through the lineup, I think I only threw two of my sweepers, and then I was able to just attack with my heater and go four-seam, sinker and my splitty for the most part,” Puk said. “I think that'll kind of be helpful being able to have all those different pitches and able to pick and choose who I throw them to."
The Miami Marlins are 3-4 to start Spring Training.
