Height
6'4"
Weight
205 lbs
Age
31
College
N/A
Experience
4 yrs
Bats/Throws
R/R
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsA-
| Year | Team | GP | ERA | W-L | K | WHIP | IP | SV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 192 | 3.0381126 | 12-12 | 189 | 1.1488203 | 0.0 | 14 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
Total Value
$2.8M
Guaranteed
$1.7M
AAV
$2.8M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Anthony Bender's one-year, $2.8M deal with the Marlins earns an A- CVI, representing excellent value for an above-average reliever in today's bullpen market. While $2.8M might seem modest for a quality setup man, Bender's track record of consistent performance makes this a shrewd acquisition for a Marlins organization still building toward contention. Relief pitching remains notoriously volatile year-to-year, but Bender has shown the kind of swing-and-miss stuff that translates across different environments, giving Miami a dependable late-inning option without the multi-year commitment that often burns teams with relievers. The short-term nature of this contract is particularly smart given the Marlins' competitive timeline — they get immediate bullpen stability while maintaining payroll flexibility as their young core continues developing. For a franchise that has historically struggled with roster construction, locking up above-average relief production at this price point shows genuine front office improvement. This deal hits the sweet spot of addressing a clear need without hampering future roster moves, making it one of the better under-the-radar signings of the winter.
Fan & Media Sentiment
Anthony Bender, a relief pitcher for the Marlins, carries mixed-to-positive public sentiment based on their elite production. His A- performance grade positions him among the elite at the relief pitcher position. While he has yet to earn major individual awards, his contributions to the Marlins keep him in the conversation. On a contract worth $2.8M/year, the modest salary keeps pressure manageable while any breakout would be a bonus. Fan opinion is divided, with some appreciating his potential while others point to inconsistencies that temper enthusiasm. At 31, he is in the veteran phase of his career where sustained health and consistency will determine how fans and analysts judge his remaining value.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, 4/7 | vs CIN | L 3-6 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
| Sun, 4/5 | @ NYY | W 7-6 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
Transaction History
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