A few months ago, the Miami Marlins got a preview of the future when Sixto Sanchez made his MLB debut.
The young right-hander made seven starts in 2020 as Miami became an unlikely playoff team. Sanchez will again be a vital piece this upcoming season as the Marlins look to return to the postseason. While Sanchez’s major league career has just begun, the expectations will be high in 2021. For Sanchez, however, it is a moment he has been waiting for as he looks to become the face of the franchise.
In Sanchez’s first taste of major league action, he went 3-2 in 39 innings of work. The Dominican native struck out 33 batters, including a career-high 10 in his second major league start against Tampa Bay. In a shortened 2020 campaign, Sanchez held batters to a .250 average and only allowed three home runs. Although the former top prospect struggled in his last two starts, he showed flashes of why he is one of baseball’s most highly-regarded prospects.
Sixto Sánchez was dealing today and picked up the first complete game of his career. pic.twitter.com/wEAtfpehEx
— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) September 13, 2020
When Sanchez takes the mound, he is electric. The Marlins’ righty pitches with emotion as every big strikeout or out is followed by a celebration. Sanchez brings a passion that is similar to former ace Jose Fernandez.
The Marlins prospect has already made his mark in the record books, too. In his second start, Sanchez threw the fastest pitch by a Marlins starter in seven years.
What does the future hold?
Sanchez showed excellent control this past season. In Sanchez’s first seven appearances, he only walked more than three batters once. That also happened to be his shortest start at the major league level so far. As the league adjusts to his style, it will be critical that Sanchez continues to improve his control and maintain a high strikeout rate.
Although Sanchez finished with solid numbers, he did struggle in September. In Sanchez’s last two starts, he only lasted a combined seven innings and allowed nine earned runs. Heading into next season, however, it will serve as a learning moment for the Marlins’ future ace. Additionally, over Sanchez’s last four starts, he did not allow a home run, which was a welcoming sign.
Sixto Sanchez is a FREAK. pic.twitter.com/EaYIJ7jlAc
— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) October 2, 2020
As the Marlins look towards the future, Sanchez’s rise comes when the franchise is at a unique place. The Marlins unexpectedly made the playoffs in 2020 and have more talented prospects on the way. Next season, however, this team will be looking to prove that 2020’s success was not solely due to a shortened season.
With Sanchez on the major league roster, Miami’s future is bright as he looks to lead the staff for years to come.
Check us out on our socials:
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk
Instagram: @ptsportstalk
Follow Jamie Gatlin On Twitter @JamieGatlin17
Main Image Credit:
