On Monday afternoon the Miami Marlins traded shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria to the Tampa Bay Rays for two prospects: right-handed pitcher Ethan Clark and outfielder Braxton Lee. Here’s a quick take on the two newest members of the Marlins organization.
Ethan Clark, RHP: Ethan Clark was drafted in the 15th round in 2015 from Crowder Community College in Missouri. He spent the 2015 and 2016 seasons in the Appalachian League, then moved up to the Low-A Midwest League for 2017. He had a 3.11 ERA in 55 innings for Bowling Green before the trade, with a decent 50/18 K/BB ratio.
Clark is 6-5, 235, born October 26th, 1994. Reliable information on him is sparse, but Baseball America reports a fastball up to 95-96 MPH and a workable change-up.
Braxton Lee, OF: The Rays drafted Braxton Lee in the 12th round in 2014 from the University of Mississippi. He hit .281/.375/.322 in college that year, showing no power at all, but interested scouts with 30 steals. He was hitting .321/.391/.401 this year for Double-A Montgomery with 12 steals in 262 at-bats but has been caught 11 times.
Lee is a left-handed hitter, listed at 5-10, 1985, born August 23, 1993. He is a 60-grade runner and draws praise for his defensive ability, but needs to use his speed more effectively on the bases. Lack of power remains the biggest concern.
Overall, I think this is a fair deal for the Marlins since they can dump Hechavarria’s salary while picking up a live arm and a potential reserve outfielder.
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