Marlins Closer Pete Fairbanks Returns After Paternity Leave

The veteran reliever missed 3 games for the birth of his child.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:53pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion broken down into overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the conceptual idea of a player's return to the game after a personal absence.A cubist interpretation of a relief pitcher's return to the mound after time away for a personal event.Today in Miami

Miami Marlins closer Pete Fairbanks has returned to the team after missing the first three games of the team's home series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Fairbanks was away from the team for a few days to be present for the birth of his child.

Why it matters

Fairbanks is a key part of the Marlins' bullpen, serving as the team's closer. His absence for a few games could have impacted the team's performance, so his return is important for the Marlins as they look to maintain their position in the standings.

The details

Fairbanks, a veteran right-handed reliever, missed the Marlins' first three games against the Phillies at loanDepot park in Miami. The team did not disclose the gender or name of Fairbanks' newborn child, but the pitcher was granted paternity leave to be present for the birth.

  • Fairbanks missed the Marlins' first 3 games against the Phillies from April 7-9, 2026.

The players

Pete Fairbanks

A veteran right-handed relief pitcher and the closer for the Miami Marlins.

Miami Marlins

A professional baseball team based in Miami, Florida that plays in the National League East division of Major League Baseball.

Philadelphia Phillies

A professional baseball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that plays in the National League East division of Major League Baseball.

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What’s next

Fairbanks is expected to resume his closer duties for the Marlins as they continue their series against the Phillies.

The takeaway

The Marlins were able to weather Fairbanks' brief absence, and his return will provide a boost to the team's bullpen as they look to maintain their position in the NL East standings.