What an injury to Christian Yelich would mean for the Miami Marlins

On Tuesday, the Miami Marlins managed to win a baseball game. While the reversal of their fortunes was refreshing, it came at a price.

The Miami Marlins wrapped up the first game of a two game set against the Oakland Athletics last night. Winners of an 11-9 slugfest, the Fish lead from start to finish. The offensive explosion was encouraging, and the win offered a much needed respite for a weary Marlins organization.

That’s not to say that everything came up roses for the Fish last night, though. An injury to Christian Yelich forced the center fielder out of the game in the eighth inning. Initial reports indicate that his hip flexor is the problem. It is unclear how long he’ll be out.

For the time being, Yelich is listed as day-to-day. He still needs to undergo evaluation and the team has given no indication exactly how serious the injury is. If the Marlins star center fielder misses any extended time, it could add insult to injury for the Fish.

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The Miami marlins have been hammered by injuries throughout the young season. With a number of players from the Major League roster already on the disabled list, they can ill afford to have Yelich join them in the infirmary. Even with the Miami Marlins center fielder struggling, there is a steep drop off behind him on the bench.

Ichiro would be the likeliest option to fill his spot. The legendary Japanese hit machine has seen his production tail off this year. He has played in a mostly pinch-hit capacity, but after getting the start last night, the world hit leader managed to go 1-5 with a couple of RBI’s.

A roster spot would be available

The Marlins would need to counter with a roster move to provide some outfield depth. Currently the Marlins have Isaac Galloway tearing up minor league pitching. He is yet to log any Major League service time, though, making him an unlikely option for the Fish. They’ll look for someone who can contribute right away.

Destin Hood logged some Major League service time last year. He struggled, hitting only .240 and picking up only 6 hits in 13 at bats. Mike Aviles was recently optioned back to AAA, an all around utility man, he has logged 122 appearances in the outfield.

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The Miami Marlins will find themselves in a serious pinch if Yelich spends extended time on the disabled list. Options exist, but none of them are ideal. Ichiro stands as the incumbent replacement, with a minor league call up filling in behind him.