Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley reportedly took a break from training camp prep this weekend to attend a Marlins game at loanDepot Park, according to social media posts that have not been independently confirmed by an official team or league source. Posts circulating online claim Hafley threw out a ceremonial first pitch before Miami’s matchup with the Cleveland Guardians, wearing Marlins gear in support of the home team.
What is confirmed: the Guardians beat the Marlins in a game at loanDepot Park in mid-July 2026. The final score and box score are publicly available through MLB’s official game log.
Hafley’s First Season Leading the Dolphins
Whatever happened on the field Sunday, it’s a lighter moment in what’s shaping up to be a significant year for Hafley. He was named the 12th head coach in Dolphins history in January 2026, taking over for Mike McDaniel, who went 35-33 across four seasons in Miami.
Hafley isn’t new to South Florida sports crossover moments — Dolphins players have thrown first pitches at Marlins games before. But this would be his first turn in that spotlight since taking the job.
Before Miami, Hafley spent two seasons as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator. Green Bay’s defense finished in the top half of the league in total defense last season, allowing 311.8 yards per game, and produced multiple All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections on that side of the ball.
He also spent four years as Boston College’s head coach from 2020 to 2023, finishing with a 22-26 record and a Fenway Bowl win over SMU to close out the 2023 season.
Building His Staff: The Kevin Patullo Question
Hafley’s roster of assistants has drawn its own share of scrutiny — none more than the decision to bring in Kevin Patullo as pass game coordinator. Patullo was let go by the Philadelphia Eagles as offensive coordinator following a wild-card playoff exit, and his track record calling plays in Philadelphia was widely criticized.
🎥 Jeff Hafley throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at the Marlins game. ⚾️ (@Marlins) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/PlAnBVLueF
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) July 12, 2026
According to the source material provided for this report, Hafley defended the hire by pointing to Patullo’s experience and football knowledge, including his history as part of a Super Bowl-winning staff. That quote is attributed to reporting from The Athletic’s Zach Berman — but this outlet was unable to independently locate and verify the original article or exact quote at publication time. It should be treated as reported-but-unconfirmed pending direct verification.
What’s Next for Miami
The first-pitch moment, confirmed or not, comes during the quiet stretch before training camp opens. Hafley and the Dolphins kick off the 2026 regular season on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sept. 13.
