Bold Predictions for the 2013 Miami Marlins Season

Before every season, people make predictions on what they believe will happen during the season. Most of the time, these predictions are just for fun, because as we all know, nothing actually plays out the way it is supposed to in baseball.

Last season I made a few bold predictions about the Marlins that did not go too well. Here is a review of my bold predictions from last season:

1. Hanley Ramirez and Giancarlo Stanton will both be MVP candidates all season long.

Sept. 11, 2012; Phoenix, AZ, USA: Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Hanley Ramirez against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Giancarlo Stanton had a monster season, but Hanley Ramirez was a major disappointment for the Marlins and was shipped out in July. Stanton did not even finish in the top 20 for MVP and Hanley’s name was nowhere to be seen.

Verdict: Wrong (0/1)

2. Josh Johnson will throw 195 innings and make 30 starts

I believe I can give myself half credit for this, as Josh Johnson made 31 starts, but he fell four innings short of the goal I had established for him. To be fair to JJ, he seemed to be healthy at the seasons end, but the Marlins decided to skip his last start.

Verdict: Half Right (.5/2)

3. Emilio Bonifacio‘s struggles at the plate will lead to a trade for a center fielder

I am going to say that I was technically right here, as Bonifacio did struggle to get to the plate, due to injuries. This did lead to the Marlins trading for Justin Ruggiano.

Verdict: Right (1.5/3)

4. Ricky Nolasco has a breakout season

I predict this almost every season, but it never happens. Ricky had another disappointing season in 2012, as he saw a dip in strikeouts and issued walks at a higher rate than his career mark. Nolasco will be with the Marlins in 2013, likely his final one with the team.

Verdict: Wrong (1.5/4)

5. The Marlins will challenge the Philadelphia Phillies all season long for the division

We all know how this went, no comment on this.

Verdict: Wrong (1.5/5)

Not too good of work last season. I hope to do better this season with my bold predictions. Here are my five bold predictions for the 2013 season:

1. The Miami Marlins will not finish last in the NL East

The Miami Marlins will win 73 games on the season, avoiding the 100 losses some experts are predicting for the team. They will finish two games ahead of the New York Mets and avoid the basement in the National League East.

Mar 17, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins first baseman Logan Morrison (far right) talks with teammates during a spring training game against St. Louis Cardinals at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

2. Logan Morrison‘s bounce back season

LoMo is likely going to be out till the end of May after the team placed him on the 60 day disabled list. Once Logan makes his return, I believe he will refind his stroke that made many Marlins fans fall in love with him when he made his major league debut during the 2010 season. Morrison will post a .270/.345/.445 slash line, hitting 15 home runs.

3. Giancarlo Stanton will hit 45 home runs

As well know, Giancarlo Stanton has immense power. He has become the premier power hitter in baseball at just the age of 23. There is still some growth for Stanton, as he needs to improve his plate discipline. Stanton will break the Marlins single season home run record of 42, held by Gary Sheffield, in 2013. His overall line will sit at .280/.365/.605.

4. Jose Fernandez will win Rookie of the Year

It was announced today that Fernandez will be making the Marlins Opening Day roster. Later on, Larry Beinfest confirmed that the Marlins planned on keeping Jose in the majors all season long. I predict that Jose, even though he is just 20-years old, will win the Rookie of the Year award. Yesterday, I predicted that Shelby Miller would take home the award, but I have changed my mind. Fernandez will pitch 138 innings, posting a 3.75 ERA, while racking up an impressive 3.17 K/BB ratio.

5. The Marlins will reach a contract extension with Stanton

Yes, this one is the one. Many speculate that Stanton will have no interest in re-upping with the Marlins after the fire sale moves made this past offseason. I am however in the camp that Stanton would not turn down a huge contract if the Marlins made the right offer. I do not have any number in mind for Stanton’s extension, but I believe one can get done. Stanton will be impressed enough by the Marlins top prospects and the reemergence of Chris Coghlan and Logan Morrison enough to want to be a Marlin longterm. The deal will include a no-trade clause.