The Toronto Maple Leafs have been active on the signing front, bolstering their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, with six new additions. This mix of seasoned veterans and promising prospects aims to strengthen the Marlies while potentially developing future NHL talent. Let’s take a closer look at each of these players.

Robert Mastrosimone

One of the most intriguing signings is 23-year-old forward Robert Mastrosimone. Last season, Mastrosimone played 25 games with the Marlies, tallying 15 points. Standing at 5’10” and 170 pounds, he may be smaller in stature, but he has an impressive resume as a former second-round pick by the Detroit Red Wings. He shined during his senior year at Arizona State University, recording 42 points in 38 games in the 2022-23 NCAA season. While his size could pose challenges for cracking an NHL lineup, Mastrosimone possesses the skill to make the jump if he continues to develop.

Joseph Blandisi

A familiar face for Marlies fans, 30-year-old forward Joseph Blandisi is returning for another season. Blandisi, who has spent the last three years with the Marlies, even served as an alternate captain last season. A proven scorer at the AHL level, Blandisi also has some NHL experience, although he hasn’t played at that level since 2019-20. He will likely continue to serve as a mentor and leader for the younger players, both on and off the ice, while anchoring the Marlies’ core group.

Zach Solow

Zach Solow, 25, has carved out a niche as a reliable AHL/ECHL player. Last season, he found stability with the Marlies, recording 26 points in 66 games along with 132 penalty minutes. Although Solow doesn’t appear to be in the Leafs’ long-term NHL plans, he provides valuable depth and toughness for the Marlies.

Matteo Pietroniro

Matteo Pietroniro, a 25-year-old defenseman, brings international experience to the Marlies. Standing at 6’1″, Pietroniro has played in various leagues, including stints in Europe and the North American system. He played in Finland’s top professional league and Italy, where he holds dual citizenship. Last season, he made 40 appearances with the Marlies, solidifying himself as a dependable blueliner.

Tommy Miller

Tommy Miller, who re-signed with the Marlies this summer, has been a steady presence on the blue line over the past two seasons. In 2022-23, he split his time between the Marlies and the ECHL’s Newfoundland Growlers. Last season, Miller was limited to 44 games due to injuries but still managed to post a plus-18 rating with five points. He also contributed two assists in the playoffs, showing his reliability in key moments.

Ryan McCleary

Rounding out the group is 21-year-old defenseman Ryan McCleary. At 6’3″ and shooting right, McCleary brings size and a valuable right-handed shot to the defense. Drafted in the seventh round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2021, McCleary spent last season with the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos, where he recorded 36 points in 56 games. While not expected to make an immediate impact at the NHL level, his combination of size and skill could make him a future asset for the Leafs.

Looking Ahead

While none of these players are expected to suit up for the Leafs this season unless injuries hit hard, several of them have potential paths to the NHL. Keep an eye on their development with the Marlies, as their performance will shape their future in the spor.