Tyler Kolek, the second overall pick in the June draft, made his professional debut Saturday for the Gulf Coast League Marlins.
Kolek, a strong-armed right-hander, threw two scoreless innings in Viera, allowing two hits and a walk. He faced seven batters and struck out the first batter he faced. He got three ground ball outs in the second inning.
Kolek had help on the base paths. One runner was caught stealing and another was thrown out. According to one report, Kolek’s fastball hit 97 mph.
Kolek’s next start will be late this this week, possibly Friday in St. Lucie. If not, then he could pitch in Jupiter either Thursday or Saturday.
DeSclafani, Marisnick sent down
Pitcher Anthony DeSclafani and outfielder Jake Marisnick were optioned to Triple A New Orleans following Saturday’s 14-inning loss to the A’s. Christian Yelich was reinstated from the DL today and is leading off and playing center field. Reliever Dan Jennings was recalled from New Orleans.
DeSclafani has started five games but this does not mean he will not be back in the rotation soon. Miami’s bullpen is beleaguered after 14-inning games Thursday and Saturday sandwiched around DeSclafani’s short stint Friday (3 innings) after suffering a bruise just below the elbow on his throwing arm when he was struck by a batted ball.
Still, he has struggled since his seven inning debut in L.A. in which he allowed two runs. Since, in four starts he has giving up 18 runs in 18.1 innings.
The Marlins will have to find another starter for Thursday’s game against the Phillies.
Marcell Ozuna, who left Saturday’s game with a leg injury, is not in today’s lineup.
