Miami Marlins pitcher Sixto Sanchez appears to be on his way back to contributing once again.
Sanchez hasn’t pitched since Miami’s playoff run in 2020, but is now showing some promise. The fiery right-hander has lost 46 pounds and is throwing bullpen sessions for Miami. The 24-year old is reaching 88 MPH in his sessions thus far, according to the Miami Herald.
Miami is not currently counting on Sanchez to be a member of the roster, but he would be a massive boost if he can find himself there. After two full lost seasons, it is hard to know what kind of pitcher Sanchez will be at this point. Though, his young age and improved shape could go a long way to making a return possible.
It is likely that Sanchez will open the year in either AA or AAA, where he will look to build up some strength against live competition. Should Sanchez perform well, he could find himself back in Miami by June. During the 2020 season, Sanchez showed flashes of brilliance and the potential to be at the front of a MLB rotation.
Miami has Sanchez on the 40-man roster currently and he will be in Jupiter with the team for spring training.