Miami

Marlins Add Veteran Reliever Junichi Tazawa: Report

The Marlins have a reported agreement with free agent reliever Junichi Tazawa

The Miami Marlins have signed relief pitcher Junichi Tazawa to a two-year deal, according to a report by MLB.com.

The deal is worth $12 million overall with $7 million of it coming in 2018. Compared to other contracts signed this off-season, the Tazawa deal appears to be fair on the surface. Earlier on Thursday, former Marlins pitcher Mike Dunn joined Colorado with a contract that could reach $25 million.

Tazawa is an intriguing new option for manager Don Mattingly to turn to and brings some veteran experience to the club. Since 2009, Tazawa has been in the bullpen for the Boston Red Sox and has a career 3.58 E.R.A. The right-hander struggled in parts of the last two seasons, but may still have something left in the tank.

One of the best aspects of Tazawa's game is his control. In 312 major league innings, the 30-year old has only walked 71 batters. This will be a welcome sign for Miami, as the team has had a revolving door of walk-friendly relievers in recent years.

When used properly, Tazawa can be highly effective. The right-hander is an oddity of sorts as he actually performs better against left-handed hitters. With Dunn gone, Miami could opt to use Tazawa as a psuedo lefty specialist on some days and not sign a true left-handed pitcher. Tazawa gives Miami's front office a plethora of options that it previously did not have.

The Marlins are still in the market for more help and should be expected to sign at least one more reliever.

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