Miami Marlins vs. Oakland Athletics: Three stories to watch

Can Derek Push Dee For Playing Time?

Lastly, we could be reaching a point where the Miami Marlins will have to make some interesting roster choices regardless of the win-loss record. In two weeks time, all three injured infielders should be ready to return to action. That’s terrific news, and will give the Marlins much more flexibility off the bench, and a far deeper everyday lineup.

Bottom-line, the days of being forced to watch Christian Colon play baseball are just about over.

The assumption is that this newfound health will equal the end of J.T. Riddle‘s time in the starting lineup, or the trading of Adeiny Hechavarria. But I think the position most worthy debate isn’t shortstop at all, but rather second base.

Derek Dietrich drew All-Star buzz during his time filling in for a suspended Dee Gordon last year and just had his best series of the season against the Pirates. If he can keep that going in this series, the pressure only increases on Gordon, a leadoff hitter hitting in the .270s  that can’t walk to save his life.

Hechavarria was actually hitting at a pretty high level before getting hurt. He’ll will regain his job in the short term, if for no other reason than to ensure he gets a chance to market his skills to potential buyers. Dietrich is the natural fit to supplant Gordon, and the one most in need of having to continue to produce to earn a shot. Definitely something that warrants watching over these two games.

Next: Miami Marlins day one draft grades

To be honest, Hechavarria isn’t the only hitter Riddle has been performing semi-comparably to. If Dietrich can’t wrestle the job away from Gordon, don’t be surprised if Riddle is given the chance to try out a new position.