Here’s What You Need to Know about the Marlins’ Infield Situation
The Miami Marlins used almost 50 players, including 17 rookies, to continue building their squad in 2019. Their prospects, a few who showed potential as high-end players, needed a taste of the daily rigors in the major leagues. But changes are expected to take place this offseason. In particular, the infield is set to experience a little shakeup. Here’s everything you ought to know about Marlin’s infield situation.
First Base
You’ll find Austin Dean and Garret Cooper. However, there’s a possibility of re-signing young Lewin Diaz, who’s a free agent.
Garret Cooper was Marlin’s opening day right infielder for the past two seasons. In 2019, Garret played more 1st base. Cooper appears to be a lock to make the roster for next year given his positional flexibility.
Austin Dean is a left fielder, but he found himself at first base in the Majors last year. He’s 26 now and has amassed just a .268 OBP in a half season’s worth of MLB plate appearances. He is worth keeping an eye on as he is the number 12 prospect in the Marlins per the MLB pipeline and he has posted an OPS over .900 in each of his last two minor league seasons.
The Marlins can’t be too excited about these prospects and are likely to pursue free agent Justin Smoak.
Second Base
Here, you find Isan Diaz. Other possibilities include Jon Berti as well as JT Riddle.
Starlin Castro is now a free agent. However, the team is on the hook for a nearly one-million-dollar buyout in the deal. That leaves the job to former top 100 prospect Isan Diaz. Isan hit .305 with 26 home runs as well as 70 RBIs in the minors last year, but 49 big league games made for a nervous 2020 Derek Jeter, hitting just .173 with 5 home runs. To top it all, he has to prove his worth to earn a spot in the springs training. If the Marlins are searching for a handcuff veteran player, Howie Kendrick is a worthy infielder free agent. Punters can go through a long list of casinos that are new to find the best gambling site to bet on these players.
Third Base
Brian Anderson figures to be entrenched at third base after his second straight year flirting with 4 WAR. It’s quite unfortunate Anderson’s 2019 season was interrupted in August, when he was hit by a pitch that fractured the 5th metacarpal bone in his left hand. He was out for the season.
Brian Anderson is an ideal choice for the 3rd base now that his Hot Corner counterpart, Martin Prado, is retiring.
The Marlin’s infield figures to be in a state of flux if they do not sign or trade for free agents. The brass appears to think that the offensive side does not matter, as shortstops Miguel Rojas and JT Riddle are likely to plug in where Isan Diaz and/or Austin Dean fall short.
