Miami Marlins: Six Players to Watch

Braxton Lee

Braxton Lee is an unexpected boon to the outfield corps on opening day. Although he didn’t start, it’s probable that we see him in this opening series against the Cubs. Lee can hit, field, and run, and will never, NEVER be out hustled. He led the Southern League last season with a .309 average, and could be an above-average leadoff man for years in the majors with the Miami Marlins.

Lee is a 5’10”, 185 lb. center fielder from Picayune, MS. Now 24-years-old, he played the first three-and-a-half seasons of his pro career in the Tampa Bay organization. He slashed .321/.391/.401 with Tampa Bay’s Southern League affiliate, the Montgomery Biscuits through 60 games in 2017.

On June 26th, Lee was included in the trade which made Adeiny Hechavarria a Ray. Ethan Clark was also sent to the Marlins’ system. Lee stayed in the Southern League, joining the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and eventually winning the SL batting title. He then slashed .347/.398/.400 in the Arizona Fall League with the Salt River Rafters.

Lee can play all three outfield positions, but has played 382 of his 394 career contests in center. He carries a .988 fielding percentage at the position, having made only 13 errors in 1051 total chances. He also has 48 outfield assists over his four seasons in the minors.

I’ve never heard of having “too many” options. That’s a concept that will not anytime soon apply to Miami. Lee brings versatility to the table for the Marlins.