MIAMI -- The Marlins selected the contract of right-hander Josh Ekness from Triple-A Jacksonville ahead of Saturday afternoon's game against the Phillies at loanDepot park.
Miami optioned lefty Cade Gibson to the Jumbo Shrimp after he threw 50 pitches in Friday night's 6-5 loss to the Phillies. The series opener began a stretch of 10 consecutive days with a game, and 26 over the next 27, so the club needed a fresh arm in the bullpen.
Ekness, whom MLB Pipeline ranks as the Marlins' No. 30 prospect, had struck out 21 batters but had allowed nine runs (eight earned) on 13 hits and six walks over 12 2/3 innings spanning nine outings for Jacksonville this season. In 2025, he led Double-A Pensacola with 10 saves in 12 opportunities.
According to MLB Pipeline's scouting report, Ekness possesses a 70-grade fastball and a 60-grade slider. A knock on "The Ekness Monster" is his ability to consistently throw strikes, as evidenced by his 45-grade control tool. Over parts of four Minor League seasons, he has a 4.4 BB/9 and a 14.9 K/9.
Strike throwing has been an issue for the Marlins' bullpen so far in 2026. Despite a MLB-low .194 average against, Miami's relievers have a 5.42 BB/9 (fourth highest in the Majors) and a 10.01 K/9 (second highest).
The 24-year-old Ekness has been a non-roster invitee at big league camp in consecutive years. This spring, he didn't allow a run in six of his nine Grapefruit League appearances.
Although Ekness wasn't on the 40-man roster, Miami had an open spot after designating for assignment veteran outfielder Austin Slater on April 23. Ekness replaces Gibson, who was recalled on Tuesday because closer Pete Fairbanks landed on the injured list with nerve irritation. The hope is that will be a minimum 15-day stint.