IBL's Toronto Maple Leafs bring back Marra brothers

The Intercounty Baseball League’s Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed All-Star catcher Justin Marra (Mississauga, Ont.). Photo: Toronto Maple Leafs (file photo from 2022)

April 4, 2023

Official Toronto Maple Leafs News Release

TORONTO - The Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed six-time IBL All-Star catcher Justin Marra, as well as his brother Adam, a veteran left-handed pitcher.

The brothers, who were born in the GTA, have been called the Toronto Maple Leafs first family of baseball.

Heading into his seventh season with the Leafs, Justin hit .311 with 11 home runs and 44 RBIs in 38 games last season. For his IBL career, he has a .318 batting average with 63 home runs and 215 RBIs. He is also a great defensive catcher and a leader in the clubhouse.

He joined the Leafs after being drafted in the 15th round by the Chicago Cubs and spending four seasons in the minor pro ranks.

“I am so happy to be on the same team as Justin,” said Leafs GM Jeff Lounsbury. “The guy can dominate a game in so many ways. He still loves to compete and his love of playing the game with his blood family and brothers in the Leaf clubhouse is special.”

For his part, Justin, is excited to be back.

“Honored to be putting the Leaf crest back on my chest,” he said. “Great to have another opportunity to represent my home city.”

As noted, the Leafs have also signed Justin’s brother, Adam, who’s a veteran left-hander.

Now entering his eighth season with the Leafs, Adam reached career highs in appearances with 20 and in innings with 29 2/3 in 2022. He had a record of 1-1 and picked up a save while adding 16 strikeouts.

After honing his skills with the Ontario Blue Jays, Adam pitched collegiately at Mount Mercy University and graduated in 2018. In his IBL career, he has pitched 129 1/3 innings in 78 appearances and owns a 5-5 record with two saves and 81 strikeouts.

"A left-handed reliever who understands his role and knows exactly who he is as a pitcher is very valuable to any pitching staff,” said Lounsbury. “He complements our other relievers, gives us a different look and will take the ball whenever given the opportunity."