Under the Radar Prospects: Marlins

The Miami Marlins are the subjects of this week's installment of Under the Radar Prospects

This week’s Under the Radar Prospects features five players from the Marlins’ system selected as names to watch during the upcoming season. These players bring a myriad of skills to the table with two promising relievers that could reach the big leagues in the near future, a toolsy outfielder, an undrafted free agent that has been an offensive force, and a solid middle of the rotation starting pitcher.

Jacob Miller, RHP - Miami Marlins

In Jacob Miller, the Miami Marlins are likely getting a dependable middle of the rotation arm that figures to keep the team in most games that he pitches. Selected in the 2nd round of the 2021 draft following an exceptional end to his high school days, Miller has an arsenal that should allow him to pitch effectively deep into games.

This past season, Miller spent most of the year in Single-A where he made 14 starts. Over the course of those outings, Miller registered a 4.70 ERA | 4.14 FIP with a 20.2 K% and 10.1 BB%; opponents mustered a .209 batting average with just three home runs in 59 1/3 innings.

The results aren’t awe inspiring, but Miller is still just 20 years old and figures to start the season in High-A. He has two above average breaking pitches that go with a fastball, that as of now sits in the low 90’s. Miller had a fastball that hit 97 while in high school, but he hasn’t been able to consistently produce that velocity since being drafted.

Jake Thompson, 1B/OF - Miami Marlins

Jake Thompson had a long NCAA career, which he finished in 2022 at the not so young age of 24-years-old. Thompson performed well, but his advanced age likely caused him to go undrafted. Nonetheless, the Marlins picked him up shortly thereafter. Thompson was quickly stationed in Single-A where he tore through the younger competition, finishing his first professional season with a 151 wRC+.

Thompson started the 2023 in High-A and picked right back up, as he hit .279 / .386 / .516 with 16 home runs over 89 games, earning a last season promotion to Double-A. Thompson held his own with this new challenge, hitting .271 / .379 / .417 in 58 trips to the plate. Another facet to Thompson’s game is his defensive versatility as he was employed in the both corner outfield positions and plays plenty of first base as well.