Brian

Miller

Miller was designated for assignment earlier this month and likely to opt for free agency. The 26-year-old outfielder appeared in five games at the major-league level for the Marlins this past season.

With the Marlins acquiring Louis Head from the Rays on Sunday, they needed to free up a spot on the 40-man roster and it appears as though Miller drew the short straw. The 26-year-old appeared in five games for the Marlins in 2021, hitting .273 (3-for-11) with three strikeouts. In 113 games at Triple-A Jacksonville, he slashed .268/.326/.338 with two homers, 34 RBI and 36 stolen bases. There’s a good chance that he’ll pass through waivers unclaimed and continue to function as outfield depth for the Marlins.

With Jesus Sanchez (hamstring) heading to the 10-day injured list, the Marlins needed extra outfield depth. The 26-year-old has appeared in two games with the big league club this season, going 1-for-3 with a strikeout.

Miller was only up for a few days but did manage to collect his first major league hit. He’s clearing out to make room for Jesus Luzardo on the roster.

With Starling Marte and Adam Duvall traded away, the Marlins have some major holes to fill in the outfield. Miller, 25, brings plenty of speed to the table -- slashing .254/.314/.331 with one homer, 21 RBI and 22 swipes in 263 plate appearances at Triple-A Jacksonville this season. He’ll start in left field on Friday night.

Miller was rumored to go higher than this, and it’s good value for the Marlins. An outfielder out of North Carolina, Miller has leadoff-type skills thanks to his approach and speed. There’s not much power in his bat, but he can put the ball into the gaps. This was very nice value for the Marlins.

He alsoscored three runs, hit two doubles, walked and stole a base. The Marlins picked Miller with the 36th pick of the draft this June, and he was excellent value. He can run, he draws walks, and he uses the entire field. There’s not a ton of power here, but the steals and doubles should compensate. Don’t be surprised if Miller moves quickly through the Miami system.