The Miami Marlins have optioned left-hander Braxton Garrett to Triple-A Jacksonville, finalizing their Opening Day rotation. Right-handers Sandy Alcantara, Eury Pérez, Max Meyer, Chris Paddack and Janson Junk will start the first five games of the 2026 season. Manager Clayton McCullough described the decision as difficult amid strong performances from multiple pitchers.
In Jupiter, Florida, the Marlins optioned Braxton Garrett to Triple-A Jacksonville on Friday afternoon, locking in their Opening Day rotation. Sandy Alcantara is set for March 27 against the Colorado Rockies at loanDepot park, followed by Eury Pérez on March 28, Max Meyer on March 29, Chris Paddack on March 30 against the Chicago White Sox, and Janson Junk on March 31. This decision came after a competitive spring training camp where several pitchers performed well. McCullough noted, “It was very difficult, and in some ways, it's a good thing that it was so difficult,” highlighting the health and performance of the group's potential starters. He praised Garrett's recovery from Tommy John surgery, saying, “Brax has worked his butt off to get back... He's a pro, and I know that when we do need him, which we will, he'll come up and help.” The Marlins did not consider shifting Garrett to the bullpen; Junk lacks minor league options while Garrett had one remaining. Garrett, 28, posted a 3.63 ERA in 48 games from 2022-23 but missed the 2025 season after Tommy John surgery in December 2024. In two spring starts, he allowed three runs over four innings. Junk, 30, had a breakout 2025 with Miami, posting a 4.17 ERA in 21 games including 16 starts. Despite a Grade 1 right ankle sprain delaying his spring, he impressed McCullough, who said, “I think Janson Junk has a chance to be a really good starting pitcher.” This move impacts Triple-A Jacksonville's rotation, featuring prospects Thomas White and Robby Snelling.