Marlins Sign Ex-Cardinals Reliever to Bolster Bullpen

One-year, $1.5 million deal brings veteran left-hander John King to Miami

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Miami Marlins have signed left-handed reliever John King to a one-year, $1.5 million contract, adding depth to their bullpen ahead of the 2026 season. King, 31, previously pitched for the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals, owning a career 3.80 ERA over 253.1 innings in the majors.

Why it matters

The Marlins are looking to build on a strong 2025 season and make a push for the playoffs in 2026. Improving their bullpen depth is a key part of that strategy, as the team aims to complement its elite starting pitching with a reliable relief corps.

The details

King had his best season in 2023 when he posted a 1.45 ERA in 18.2 innings with the Cardinals. He will join a Marlins bullpen that includes closer Pete Fairbanks as well as other key relievers like Anthony Bender, Ronny Henriquez, Andrew Nardi, and Tyler Phillips. The Marlins also recently added starting pitcher Chris Paddack, who previously played for the organization before being traded away.

  • The Marlins signed King to a one-year, $1.5 million contract on February 11, 2026.

The players

John King

A 31-year-old left-handed reliever who has pitched for the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals, owning a career 3.80 ERA.

Pete Fairbanks

The Marlins' closer who will anchor the team's bullpen in 2026.

Chris Paddack

A starting pitcher who recently joined the Marlins after previously playing for the organization earlier in his career.

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What they’re saying

“Left-handed reliever John King and the Miami Marlins are in agreement on a one-year, $1.5 million contract, sources tell ESPN.”

— Jeff Passan, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

The takeaway

The Marlins' focus on improving their bullpen depth shows their commitment to building a well-rounded pitching staff that can support the team's strong starting rotation and make a playoff push in 2026.