Miami Palms Blog

 The Miami Palms bullpen will look to left-hander Brian Matusz as a veteran presence capable of handling key middle relief innings. Matusz, who appeared exclusively out of the bullpen last year, delivered mixed results. He finished with a 5.29 ERA over 49.1 innings and struggled with consistency, allowing a .308 batting average against. However, he managed to secure four wins and collect 15 saves when called upon in high-leverage situations. Manager Scott Hatteberg expressed confidence in Matusz's ability to bounce back in 2020. “Brian’s got the experience and the composure we need in tight spots,” Hatteberg said during spring training. “We’ve worked on a few adjustments, and I think he’s ready to step up this year.” Matusz’s repertoire, which includes a deceptive changeup and a solid slider, makes him a valuable matchup option against left-handed hitters. If he can cut down on walks (17 issued last season) and refine his command, he could be a stabilizing force in a bullpen that i...

 As the Miami Palms prepare for the 2020 season, Chris Martin stands out as a pivotal piece of their bullpen. Entering his second season as the team's closer, Martin looks to build on his stellar 2019 campaign, where his reliability in late-inning situations proved invaluable. 2019 Season Highlights: Saves: 33 ERA: 3.04 WHIP: 1.14 Strikeouts: 41 (53.33 IP) Opponents' Batting Average: .234 Martin’s calm demeanor and pinpoint control make him a model closer. His ability to induce weak contact while mixing in timely strikeouts allows him to work efficiently and effectively under pressure. Last season, he converted 33 saves while only blowing three opportunities, a testament to his consistency in sealing victories. Manager's Perspective: “Chris is the kind of guy you want on the mound in the ninth,” said Scott Hatteberg . “He has the mentality of a closer—nothing rattles him. When the game’s on the line, he’s our guy, and he’s proven he can handle that responsibility.” Pla...

 Nick Markakis returns to the Miami Palms lineup as a steadying force both offensively and defensively. Known for his consistency and contact skills, Markakis was one of the team’s most reliable hitters last season, leading the Palms in batting average and providing strong defense in left field. Season Highlights: Batting Average: .301 Home Runs: 20 RBI: 67 Doubles: 44 OPS: .818 Games Played: 157 Markakis had an impressive season, hitting .301 and slugging 20 home runs with 67 RBIs. His .818 OPS reflects his well-rounded approach at the plate—Markakis can hit for power, work the count, and consistently make contact. His 44 doubles were among the highest on the team, often setting the table for the lineup and putting himself in scoring position. Not only does he get on base, but Markakis is also excellent at moving runners along, playing a key role in generating offensive momentum. On the defensive side, Markakis remains a solid asset. With a strong arm and dependable glove, h...

 Jarod Lantz returns this season as the Miami Palms' ace, ready to build upon an impressive  campaign. With a mix of poise, control, and solid strikeout ability, Lantz has proven to be a reliable presence at the top of the rotation, and expectations are high as he takes on a leadership role in the Palms’ pitching staff. Season Highlights: Record: 15-11 ERA: 3.14 Innings Pitched: 232 Strikeouts: 162 WHIP: 1.17 Opponent Batting Average: .249 Home Runs Allowed: 25 Lantz's numbers from 2023 reflect his ability to handle a full-season workload, throwing 232 innings with a WHIP of 1.17, an indicator of his efficiency in keeping baserunners to a minimum. His 3.14 ERA was among the best on the Palms’ staff, and his 162 strikeouts show he can bring the heat when needed. Lantz has consistently been able to limit walks, with only 41 on the season, which highlights his exceptional control and focus on keeping opponents off balance. Lantz thrives on inducing weak contact, evident in...

 Chris Korb has established himself as the Miami Palms' everyday third baseman, and after a standout season, he’s poised to be a crucial piece of the team's offense once again. Known for his combination of power and consistency at the plate, Korb enters the new season with high expectations. Season Highlights: Batting Average: .291 Home Runs: 27 RBI: 89 Doubles: 28 OPS: .807 Total Bases: 290 Games Played: 143 Korb was a force in the middle of the Palms' lineup last season. He hit for both average and power, slugging 27 home runs and driving in 89 runs. His .291 batting average was second-highest among the team’s regulars, and his .807 OPS was a testament to his ability to get on base and hit for extra bases. With 28 doubles, he also added a key dimension of gap power, often setting up scoring opportunities for his teammates. Defensively, Korb is reliable at the hot corner. His quick reactions and strong arm give him the tools to handle the challenges of third base. W...

 After an impressive rookie campaign, Matt Koch is set to return as a key utility player for the Miami Palms this season. Koch made the most of his opportunities last season, flashing both his versatility in the field and his potential at the plate. Season Highlights (Rookie Year): Batting Average: .280 Home Runs: 5 RBI: 17 Doubles: 7 OPS: .770 Games Played: 41 Koch showed he could handle major league pitching in his rookie season, posting a solid .280 batting average in 143 at-bats. His ability to come through with timely hits, including five home runs and seven doubles, demonstrated his pop. Though he didn't play a full season, his .770 OPS was a strong indication of his potential to grow into a productive everyday player. One of Koch’s biggest strengths is his versatility. He was deployed all over the field, filling in as needed at multiple positions. His strong arm and quick reactions made him a reliable option both in the infield and the outfield, which gives Scott Hatte...

 Blake Johnston will take the mound once again for the Miami Palms as a key piece of the rotation this season. Coming off a solid campaign, Johnston aims to improve upon his performance as a reliable middle-of-the-rotation starter. Season Highlights: Record: 15-10 ERA: 4.67 Innings Pitched: 206.33 Strikeouts: 124 WHIP: 1.49 Quality Starts: 18 Johnston’s ability to eat innings and keep his team in games was a major asset to the Palms last year. He started 32 games and logged over 200 innings, a significant workload that showcased his durability. While his ERA of 4.67 was slightly above league average, Johnston was effective at managing difficult situations and keeping games close. His 15 wins led the team’s rotation, and his 18 quality starts underlined his capacity to pitch deep into games. Manager's Perspective: "Blake is our workhorse," said manager Scott Hatteberg . "He's a guy we know we can count on to take the ball every fifth day and give us a chance...

 Jeremy Jeffress enters the new season as one of the Miami Palms' most dependable bullpen arms. Known for his electric stuff and high-pressure poise, Jeffress is set to be the bridge to closer Chris Martin , taking on critical late-inning situations as the team's primary setup man.  Season Highlights: ERA: 2.22 Innings Pitched: 56.67 Strikeouts: 45 WHIP: 1.11 Opponents' Batting Average: .206 Jeffress had a stellar season, boasting a 2.22 ERA over 56.67 innings. His 45 strikeouts showcased his ability to overpower hitters, and a WHIP of 1.11 proved how effective he was at limiting baserunners. Opponents hit just .206 against him, further emphasizing his dominance on the mound. Jeffress was one of the most reliable options for Scott Hatteberg when the Palms needed to escape tough situations in the later innings. Manager's Perspective: "Jeremy was lights out for us last year," said Hatteberg. "He has a knack for stepping up in big moments, and that’s e...

 Brock Holt returns to the Miami Palms as the quintessential utility player, offering unparalleled versatility and a reliable bat off the bench. Known for his ability to play multiple positions and provide clutch hits, Holt is an invaluable asset to the Palms as they head into the new season.  Season Highlights: Batting Average: .345 (in 40 games) Doubles: 21 OPS: .936 RBI: 19 Though Holt's campaign was limited by injury, he made a significant impact when on the field. His .345 batting average was a testament to his ability to deliver quality at-bats, and his impressive .936 OPS underscored his power and on-base ability. Despite the limited sample size, Holt's 21 doubles in just 145 at-bats highlighted his knack for extra-base hits. Defensively, Holt’s flexibility is a manager’s dream. Whether filling in at second base, third base, or in the outfield, Holt’s reliable glove and strong arm allow Scott Hatteberg to give regular starters a rest without sacrificing defensive q...

Pat Grant is returning for another season with the Miami Palms, bringing his steady bat and versatile defensive skills to the team. Known for his consistency at the plate and ability to play both first base and the outfield, Grant is expected to be a key contributor to the Palms' lineup this year.  Season Highlights: Batting Average: .274 Doubles: 31 Home Runs: 17 RBI: 61 Runs: 65 Grant was a reliable presence in the middle of the order last season, delivering key hits in crucial situations. His 31 doubles highlighted his ability to find the gaps and stretch singles into extra bases, while his 17 home runs added some pop to the lineup. Defensively, Grant's flexibility to play both first base and the outfield gives manager Scott Hatteberg plenty of options. His smooth glove work at first base and solid reads in the outfield make him a valuable asset on both sides of the ball. Manager's Perspective: "Pat's one of those guys you can count on day in and day out,...

 As the Miami Palms gear up for an exciting new season, one of their most anticipated acquisitions is veteran outfielder Brett Gardner. Known for his speed, defensive prowess, and leadership, Gardner brings a wealth of experience to the Palms' outfield. Career Highlights: Gold Glove Winner: Gardner's defensive capabilities are well-documented, with a Gold Glove to his name, showcasing his ability to patrol the outfield with precision. Speed and Stealing: Gardner has consistently been a threat on the basepaths throughout his career. His ability to steal bases and take extra bases on hits will add a new dimension to the Palms' offense. Clubhouse Leader: Gardner's veteran presence is expected to be invaluable in the clubhouse. His experience in high-pressure situations, including postseason play, will be crucial for mentoring the younger players on the team. Last Season's Performance: In his final season with the Yankees, Gardner demonstrated that he still has plent...

 As the Miami Palms gear up for another exciting season, all eyes will be on their standout second baseman, Jaspero Gonzalez. Coming off a solid year where he showcased both consistency and power, Gonzalez is poised to be a key contributor to the Palms' success in the upcoming campaign. Gonzalez's performance last season demonstrated his ability to get on base and drive in runs. With a batting average of .270 and 19 home runs, he was a reliable presence in the lineup. His 26 doubles and 3 triples highlight his knack for finding gaps in the defense and stretching hits for extra bases. What to Expect in 2024: Gonzalez enters the new season with a renewed focus on improving his plate discipline and increasing his on-base percentage. During the off-season, he worked extensively on his swing mechanics and approach to hitting, aiming to cut down on his strikeouts and draw more walks. "I've put in a lot of work this off-season to refine my game," Gonzalez said in a recen...

 Greg Garcia struggled at the plate last season, with a batting average of just .140 over 41 games. Despite the low average, he demonstrated some power potential with 2 home runs and 3 doubles. His plate discipline was solid, drawing 15 walks against 32 strikeouts, leading to an on-base percentage of .222. For the upcoming season, Garcia will look to improve his contact rate and overall consistency at the plate. His versatility as a utility infielder will be valuable to the team, providing depth across multiple positions. If he can raise his batting average and continue to show patience at the plate, Garcia has the potential to be a key contributor off the bench. His experience and ability to play multiple infield positions make him a useful asset in late-game situations or when filling in for injured starters. Overall, Garcia's focus for the season will be on making more consistent contact and capitalizing on his opportunities to drive in runs and get on base. With some adjustment...

Entering his second season with the Miami Palms, starting pitcher Erick Fedde aims to build on a promising year. With 32 starts and a 7-11 record, Fedde logged 204.67 innings with a 4.13 ERA. His ability to limit walks and keep hitters to a .278 batting average showcases his command. Fedde's repertoire includes a fastball averaging 92 mph, complemented by a sharp breaking ball and changeup. He boasts a 1.54 WHIP and induces ground balls at a 45.0% rate. Fedde's poised to make his mark and contribute to the Palms' success with his determination and skill on the mound.

 Veteran hitter Edwin Encarnacion has probably seen the last of his 40HR seasons, but he is still a potent bat in the middle of the lineup. Last season, Encarnacion hit 25 home runs, and had an OBP of nearly .350 thanks to continued plate patience. The lineup is going to start to need to get younger, and if his performance keeps up, he can act as a veteran leader. If not, this is an area the team will hope to get younger. 

 Adam Conley comes to the Palms from the cross town Marlins, where he will add some depth to the bullpen. Conley isn't expected to be used in high leverage situations, but rather as a depth reliever targeting some long relief opportunities. The Palms are aiming to use their starting rotation a little less, so Conley is going to be an important cog. 

 Miami has a history of revitalizing the career of catchers, especially behind the plate. Now in his second year with the Palms, Wellington Castillo surely hopes that tradition continues. In 2019, Castillo served as Yasmani Grandal's back up, but the veteran looks to take a greater role this season after Grandal left for the White Sox this offseason. Castillo lost some of the numbers that made him an offensive weapon with the Cubs, but Miami hopes his rapport with the pitching staff will be as much a benefit as any bounceback on offense in 2020. 

 The Palms will be relying on a very similar rotation as the one they put forth in 2019. Dylan Bundy will be entering his third season with the Palms, looking to fulfill some of the promise that came with him from Baltimore. He does have the highest strike out rate among starters, but he also gave up an inordinate amount of home runs. He will be an inning eater and a veteran presence, but Miami will be looking for more reliable production in 2020.

As part of Miami attempting to update their organizational philosophy, the Palms are adapting to modern statistics, and leveraging their best pitchers in higher impact spots. Never having before believed in "set up" pitchers, the Palms are going to deploy a handful of arms specifically in late inning situations, outside of closer Chris Martin. Cody Allen has experience being used in the back end of a bullpen, and is coming off one of his best seasons in Miami. He kept the ball in the yard, while maintaining his particularly efficient brand of pitching. He was a bit unlucky to have an ERA in the mid 3.00s, as his FIP was down around a run, but he does allow quite a few balls in play, and his ERA will always ride higher than his FIP. Still, lower workloads and specific usage may sharpen him as the 2020 season rolls around. 

 Travis Jankowski saw his former spot in the Miami outfield go to former Yankee Brett Gardner, so he too will move to another AL East team. Jankowski was added to the Orioles roster today, signing with the team to be part of their outfield mix after a solid year, in which he posted career highs in home runs and OPS. He spent 3 years wearing the Palms uniform. 

 After Yasmani Grandal ensured his stint with the Palms was only a one year venture, the Miami Palms hit the free agent market, bringing in long time Orioles catcher Matt Wieters. Wieters has, of late, been backing up Yadier Molina in St. Louis, and projects to split time with Wellington Castillo in Miami. 

With the increasing roster size in 2020, Miami has put a premium on building out their bullpen. Today, they announced the signing of former Miami Marlin Adam Conley, who will give the Palms another lefty to pair with recently resigned Wandy Peralta. Conley is likely to take on some low leverage innings, but will be able to do so for multiple at a time, as he was a starter in the early part of his career. 

 After spending one season in Miami, Yasmani Grandal has moved on to a new home on the South Side of Chicago. The Palms will be looking for their third starting catcher in as many years, though Wellington Castillo remains in the fold if the team wants to try a platoon. 

 There have been rumblings that Matt Koch might be moved to bring back some sort of prospect or pitching return, but the front office noted today that Koch is indeed a prospect himself. Koch will continue to provide value on the depth chart, spelling every position around the diamond, while hoping to sustain the .770 OPS he brought to the table in his rookie season. Miami hopes that the stability and vote of confidence will allow the utility player to flourish in 2020. 

 One of the stronger options, and clearly the top lefty out of the Palms bullpen is returning. Wandy Peralta, who owned a sub-3.00 ERA for the second year in a row, will be back to pitch more important innings in 2020. The lefty will seek to increase his strike out total, while maintaining his low home run rate. 

 Perhaps confirming the pending departure of Travis Jankowski, the Palms have filled an open outfield position by signing a long time Yankee coming off a career year. Brett Gardner joins Miami a season after hitting a career high 28 home runs. Given the course of his career, it would be a stretch to expect Gardner to supply middle of the order thump, but he will provide additional veteran leadership for a team looking for a bounceback to contention in 2020.