Marlins’ Max Meyer Eyes Return To Mound In 2024
Marlins fans may be in a hurry to see the return of 25-year-old righthander Max Meyer.
But the Marlins are going to exercise caution.
Meyer had Tommy John surgery on Aug. 9, 2022. His return date is “unknown,” according to Marlins minor league pitching coordinator Scott Aldred.
“We haven’t gotten our eyes on him yet—just video,” Aldred said in early February. “It looks like he’s doing really well, but I’m cautious with all (TJS) guys and of throwing them into the fire right away.”
Aldred said he will let Meyer’s progress dictate next steps, but he admitted that the organization has “decisions to make” regarding their top pitching prospect.
The Marlins drafted Meyer third overall in 2020 out of Minnesota and signed him for $6.7 million.
With a wipeout slider and a fastball that ranged from 94-96 mph, Meyer forced his way to the majors on July 16, 2022. He lasted just three batters in his second start, and surgery soon followed.
“It sucked because we care about him,” Aldred said. “He had put in a lot to get (to the majors).
“He finally got there, and then (he got injured). It’s disappointing.
“Nobody wants to see this happen. But it happened. We move on. We get it fixed, and we build him back even better.”
As for his recovery, Aldred said every pitcher returns differently.
“It might happen in spring training, one month into the season or two months in,” Aldred said. “I don’t know.
“But Max is a worker. I feel everything is on the right track with Max to be ready to go this spring.”
The 6-foot, 195-pound Meyer has had his doubters in terms of size and durability.
But his determination has never been in question.
“When Max is on the golf course, he thinks he’s the greatest golfer in the world,” Aldred said. “He also thinks he’s the best fisherman in the world, which I doubt. But he believes that, and he’s no different when he’s on the mound.
“Max is a competitor, and he’s going to be just fine.”
