Marlins Designate Tim Anderson for Assignment, Call Up Xavier Edwards
In a move that signals a shift towards rebuilding, the Miami Marlins have designated veteran shortstop Tim Anderson for assignment. The decision, announced on Monday, comes after Anderson struggled to find his form throughout the season. Filling the vacancy, the Marlins are calling up infielder Xavier Edwards.
Anderson, a two-time All-Star and former batting champion, signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Marlins in the offseason. Expectations were high given his previous accolades, but the 30-year-old shortstop has been unable to deliver at the plate. Over the span of 65 games, Anderson posted a disappointing .214/.237/.226 slash line. His struggles were further highlighted by a career-high strikeout rate of 28.2% of his plate appearances and only three extra-base hits in 234 at-bats.
The tipping point appeared to come after Anderson committed an error during Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite his pedigree and previous success, the Marlins felt it was time for a change as their season continues to slide with a current record of 30-54.
Replacing Anderson, Xavier Edwards brings a fresh presence to the infield. Edwards has shown promise in 33 games this season, hitting .287/.333/.333. Although his performance translates to an 80 OPS+, it offers a glimmer of hope for a team that is clearly in need of youth and vitality. Additionally, Vidal Bruján is among the internal options considered to fill Anderson's spot at shortstop.
Anderson’s career OPS+ of 95 suggests he has been a slightly below-average hitter throughout his time in the majors. However, his steep decline to a 51 OPS+ over his most recent 765 plate appearances underscores just how far he has fallen from his peak performance.
With the July 30 trade deadline approaching, the Marlins are expected to be active sellers. The move to part ways with Anderson confirms that the team is looking to retool and focus on its younger prospects. Given their standing in the league, it is no surprise that the Marlins are looking to make significant changes in hopes of future success.
Despite this roster shake-up, fans remain eager to see how the new additions perform and what other moves the Marlins will make in the coming weeks. As the season progresses, the focus now shifts to how well these younger players can integrate and contribute to the team's rebuilding efforts. For the Marlins, this is another step in a long-term strategy aimed at eventually returning to competitiveness.
As for Anderson, his future remains uncertain. Once a rising star in Major League Baseball, he now faces the challenge of proving he can still contribute at a high level. It remains to be seen whether another team will take a chance on the veteran shortstop or if this marks the beginning of the end of his professional career.
The Marlins, meanwhile, will press forward with their infusion of youthful talent, hoping that players like Edwards can inspire a much-needed resurgence. As the All-Star break approaches, the eyes of the baseball world will be closely watching Miami's moves both on and off the field.