Marlins’ Prospect Returns After Injury in Loss to Pirates

PITTSBURGH — Miami Marlins pitcher Eury Pérez made his highly anticipated return to the mound on Monday night after recovering from Tommy John surgery. In his first major league start since September 2023, Pérez faced the Pittsburgh Pirates but struggled, allowing four runs over three innings in a 10-3 loss.

At just 22 years old, Pérez is the youngest pitcher in the major leagues. He began the game strong, tossing two scoreless innings before the Pirates found their rhythm in the third. Marlins manager Clayton McCullough praised Pérez’s effort despite the outcome. “It was really great to see him back out there,” McCullough said. “You think of everything he’s been through. I told him to be proud of the work he put in.”

Pérez highlighted the emotional weight of his return, stating, “In the first inning, I kept thinking about all the obstacles that I went through. It’s good to be back.” He struck out five batters while walking two during his outing, showing glimpses of his potential as he returns to form.

Last season, Pérez was sidelined after a strong debut season where he recorded a 3.15 ERA over 19 starts. Baseball America had ranked him as the seventh-best prospect in baseball before his injury. Despite the loss, McCullough remains optimistic about Pérez’s future contribution, adding, “He’s going to be better. He’s a big part of our present and our future.”

The Marlins’ pitching situation grew more complicated as fellow starter Ryan Weathers was placed on the 60-day injured list due to a lat strain earlier in the season. Weathers has a 3.28 ERA in five starts this year and is expected to miss significant time.

Pérez’s return was met with excitement from fans and teammates alike, further highlighting the importance of his recovery to the Marlins’ aspirations this season.