Marlins’ Sixto Sánchez to undergo shoulder surgery

Marlins right-hander Sixto Sánchez will miss the rest of the 2021 season (and all of the season, in fact), as he’s set to undergo surgery to repair a small capsule tear in his right shoulder. The team hopes he’ll be back for spring training next year.

Sánchez, 22, had a strong debut with the Marlins during the coronavirus-shortened 2020 season, posting a 3.46 ERA with a 1.21 WHIP, 33 strikeouts, and 11 walks over 39 innings. It looked as if he’d be the Marlins’ ace to start the 2021 season. However, the team brought him along slowly after he reported to camp slowly due to a positive COVID-19 test (which was later determined to be a false positive), and he was optioned to the minors to start the season so he could continue building up arm strength.

During that time, Sánchez developed shoulder discomfort and had his throwing program paused. He’s slowly attempted to build back up, but he evidently had enough trouble getting back in a rhythm that he’ll now need surgery to address the issue.

Coincidentally, rookie Trevor Rogers has assumed the role as the Marlins’ ace while Sánchez has been sidelined, posting a 2.27 ERA with a 1.06 WHIP on the way to an All-Star berth.

Sánchez likely will not receive any MLB service time this year since the team optioned him before he developed an injury, though he could receive some if the team calls him up and places him on the 60-day injured list to open up a 40-man roster spot later this season.