The Miami Marlins had been one of many extra nice surprises in Main League Baseball this season.
Though the Marlins had been anticipated to complete on the backside of the NL East, they managed to stay within the playoff hunt till the ultimate few days of the season. Total, their 79-83 document marked a 17-game enchancment over their efficiency in 2024.
The longer term seems brilliant in Miami. The Marlins’ younger lineup confirmed its potential and continued to develop all through the season. Likewise, the choice to maintain gamers similar to Sandy Alcantara on the commerce deadline units the Marlins up nicely for 2026.
Miami has quietly constructed a group that might contend for a playoff berth subsequent yr. Let’s check out three questions surrounding the Marlins heading into the offseason.
Three questions for the Miami Marlins within the offseason
1. Is Sandy Alcantara again and able to carry out at an All-Star stage?
Alcantara struggled in his first yr again following Tommy John surgical procedure. He posted a career-worst 5.36 ERA and a 1.271 WHiP over 174.1 innings, hanging out 142 batters with 57 walks. Nonetheless, Alcantara additionally made 31 begins for the Marlins, giving hope that he can return to being a workhorse in Miami.
There could also be much more cause for optimism. Alcantara had an excellent second half, posting a 3.33 ERA and a 1.040 WHiP in 83.2 innings after the All-Star Break, hanging out 71 batters with 20 walks. If Alcantara can construct off of his sturdy second half, he could also be again to being the ace the Marlins want.
2. What to do with Agustin Ramirez
Ramirez was one of many extra precious hitters within the Marlins lineup, posting a strong .231/.287/.413 batting line with 21 homers and 33 doubles in 585 plate appearances whereas leading major league catchers with 16 steals. The issue is that Ramirez was additionally the Marlins’ worst defensive player.
The Marlins even have one other catching prospect on the cusp of reaching the majors. Joe Mack, the seventieth finest prospect in baseball per MLB.com, has been lauded for his sturdy arm and strong defensive expertise, whereas additionally demonstrating that he could be a dependable choice on the plate. The Marlins have a possible opening at first base the place Eric Wagaman doesn’t have the kind of offensive profile for the place. Nonetheless, Ramirez has simply 27 video games of expertise at first over three years within the minors. If Mack is prepared, Ramirez might discover himself restricted to DH responsibility.
3. Will the Marlins spend on their younger roster?
The Marlins have a complete of five players who’re both beneath contract or arbitration-eligible. In idea, this provides the entrance workplace the monetary sources to both pursue extensions with children similar to outfielder Kyle Stowers or pitcher Eury Perez. That monetary flexibility may permit the Marlins to be surprisingly lively throughout free company.
The Marlins want to enhance at each nook infield spots and in proper discipline if the lineup goes to take a big step ahead. A reliable middle-of-the-rotation starter would assist steadiness out a younger and considerably risky employees. The Marlins additionally need assistance in the midst of the bullpen to bridge the hole to nearer Ronny Henriquez. Whereas a few of these areas might enhance because the youthful gamers develop, the Marlins might want to buy groceries to take that subsequent step in 2026.
