It’s clear to see, just by watching an inning or two, what Jose Fernandez brings to the table.
But could the Miami Marlins ace have major character issues?
That sounds like it could be the case, according to a report from Andy Slater, a talk show host and on-air personality on 940 WINZ in Miami. He reported Wednesday that there are issues within the organization regarding Fernandez’s attitude, to the point where the front office is unhappy with the star pitcher.
“Jose talks to management like they are children,” a player told Slater.
Some teammates have also reportedly come to resent Fernandez. According to Slater’s report, his own teammates were hoping he’d struggle on the mound.
“There were times this season where, not all, but some players and coaches hoped Jose would go out on the mound and get shelled,” a player source told Slater. “We thought it would get him to be more humble.”
That doesn’t sound good. Of course, it’s also impossible to deny Fernandez’s unreal ability and talent. Just 23, Fernandez has already established himself as one of the best young pitchers in baseball. He broke on to the scene in 2013, going 12-6 with a 2.19 ERA in 28 starts. He followed that up with a strong start to the 2014 season before developing an arm injury that led to Tommy John surgery.
Fernandez bounced back well in limited action in 2015 after the surgery, though. He went 6-1 with a 2.92 ERA in 11 starts, striking out 79 in only 64 2/3 innings of work.
So despite the reported issues, Fernandez has to be looked at as a valuable trade chip, should the Marlins look to move him. Whether they do that, however, is still very much up in the air.
Team president David Samson emphatically said Thursday on 940 WINZ that the Marlins are “definitely not shopping Jose Fernandez, not a chance. He’s not available.”
However, Samson later acknowledged Fernandez could be available if the perfect deal presents itself.
“I don’t see it as possible of him going anywhere, but teams come up with some crazy ideas, so it’s our responsibility to always listen,” Samson said.
At the very least, it sounds like new Marlins manager Don Mattingly will have his hands full.
Thumbnail photo via Steve Mitchell/USA TODAY Sports Images
