Discussion Question: How Should the Marlins Handle Jose Fernandez?

Michael Jong over at Fishstripes wrote an interesting piece today about how the Miami Marlins have handled their top pitching prospects in the past, notably Josh Johnson, Chris Volstad, and Scott Olsen. Earlier today, Michael noted that there is some possibility that the Marlins may give super-prospect Jose Fernandez a chance at the starting rotation in 2013.

This probably wouldn't be to open the season; it seems very likely that he'll open the year in Double-A, but a chance in the majors could come very quickly if he continues to perform well according to Joe Capozzi at the Palm Beach Post.

So what do you guys think about this?

Fernandez has been amazingly good this year, going 14-1 in 25 starts between Low-A Greensboro and High-A Jupiter, with a combined 1.75 ERA and an outstanding 158/35 K/BB in 134 innings. He allowed just 89 hits and only two home runs all season. The scouting reports are as glowing as the statistics, featuring a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, sharp command, and an advanced set of secondary pitches.

Assuming all the usual caveats about good health, what would you do with Fernandez in 2013? How soon would you be willing to give him a shot in the majors? Discuss!

Personally, although I am usually an advocate of caution when it comes to pitching promotions, I don't see Fernandez as the typical 20-year-old pitching prospect. He's physically mature and already has an advanced sense of what he's doing out there. I'd be willing to be more aggressive with him than I normally would as far as pitchers go.