Full Breakdown
Marlins Option Left-Hander Braxton Garrett to Triple-A After Two Short Starts
5/21/2026, 7:16:03 AM
Garrett Optioned to Triple-A Jacksonville
On Wednesday, the Miami Marlins optioned left-handed starter Braxton Garrett to Triple-A Jacksonville. The move came less than 24 hours after Garrett’s second start of the season, an 8-4 loss to the Atlanta Braves in which he recorded only three innings.
Background & Data
Garrett returned to the majors after missing the entire 2025 season for a revision of his left-elbow ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in December 2024, which added an internal brace. In 2024 he posted a 2-2 record with a 5.35 ERA over 37 innings. Prior to his recall on May 14, he logged a 2.30 ERA in six Triple-A starts, striking out 32 and allowing a .102 batting average. In his two 2026 MLB outings he pitched 4 1/3 innings, surrendered seven runs on seven hits, issued eight walks and struck out five, yielding a 14.54 ERA.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager Clayton McCullough said the decision was “tough” but necessary to let Garrett regain his form, noting that “the strike-throwing and the misses weren’t great.” Garrett described a mechanical adjustment that “felt natural” and said he was “a little bit better, but still not good enough.” The club also recalled left-handed reliever Cade Gibson to fill the roster spot.
Criticism & Opposition
CBSSports highlighted that Garrett “didn’t perform well enough to earn a longer-term stay with the big club,” and pointed out that his two starts produced seven earned runs while walking eight batters and striking out only five. The outlet suggested that the Marlins still lack a clear fifth starter, with Thomas White being a leading candidate.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Garrett’s career ERA: ESPN lists a 4.16 ERA, while the Miami Herald cites a 4.03 ERA. Additionally, ESPN reports 4.1 innings pitched across his two starts, whereas the Miami Herald records 4 1/3 innings. No official clarification has been provided.
Impact & Outlook
The demotion leaves the No. 4 rotation spot open in a staff that already includes Sandy Alcantara, Eury Pérez, Max Meyer and Janson Junk. Potential replacements mentioned include right-handers Bradley Blalock, Ryan Gusto and left-hander Dax Fulton, as well as the possibility of a bullpen game on Sunday against the New York Mets. Garrett is scheduled to see Dr. Keith Meister for further evaluation, and the Marlins intend to monitor his progress in Jacksonville before a possible recall.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A little bit better, but still not good enough,” — Braxton Garrett, Marlins pitcher
- “After a couple starts here, we want him to get back to his best version.” — Clayton McCullough, Marlins manager
- “I felt like I could let the ball go and have confidence it'd go where I wanted [it] to,” — Braxton Garrett, pitcher
- “We have some quality options in Jacksonville as well.” — Clayton McCullough, manager
