Miami Marlins: Will Giancarlo Stanton Return in 2015?

Miami’s $325 million superstar Giancarlo Stanton has been away from MLB action since June 26th, when he fractured his hamate bone. And now, seemingly nearing a return, Stanton may end up being sidelined until 2016.

From MLB.com’s Marlins reporter Joe Frisaro:

"MIAMI — Giancarlo Stanton is doing everything within his power to return this season, but the Marlins’ All-Star right fielder acknowledged on Sunday there is a chance he won’t.Stanton still hasn’t regained full strength in his left hand, which is causing discomfort when he swings. Until that goes away, don’t expect to see the slugger in the Miami lineup.Missing the final four weeks is possible.“There’s always a possibility,” Stanton said. “But that’s not what I’m looking for.”"

It was noted on August 1st that Giancarlo Stanton’s progress was “definitely slower,” said Stanton. By the beginning of August, there remained no timetable for his return.

On August 25th, Stanton told Manny Navarro of the Miami Herald that he could be back in the lineup in “about a week-and-a-half.”

And now, with Stanton possibly not returning, still no timetable has been established. He was expected to return this Friday. However, Stanton was continuously listed as day-to-day and missed this weekend’s series.

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So what does this mean for the Marlins?

Obviously, fans would like him to return, but as with Jose Fernandez, it’s better to be safe than sorry in a season in which the Fish won’t be competing for a playoff position.

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However, if Stanton does return, we would be able to see a possible preview of the Marlins offense for 2016. Judging by this year’s individual performances, the potential of Miami’s bats next year could put them in the top half of the MLB.

With a core of Ozuna, Yelich, Stanton, Bour, Prado, Hechavarria, and Gordon, the Marlins’ offense could be a force to be reckon with.

The key to next season’s offense will evidently be Giancarlo Stanton’s health. At the beginning of the year, Stanton essentially carried the production. As undoubtably the best power hitter in the NL, it’s better to play safe than sorry with Stanton.

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Miami Marlins: Will Giancarlo Stanton Return in 2015?

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