These Miami Marlins Could Surprise in the Second Half of 2018

It’s a streak! Well, maybe not a streak, but for these Miami Marlins, it could be the start of something big in the second half of the 2018 baseball season.

Yes, the Miami Marlins are still sitting at the bottom of the National League East. Yes, they are still 38-55 and 14 games behind the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies. Yes, I believe there is still a reason for hope for this franchise.

Regardless of how many times the organization talks about its motto of “Just Gettin’ Started” or how they push bobbleheads depicting the likeness of Put Bull and D.J Khaled, or show pictures of their rockstar owner Derek Jeter, there is no glamour to this team right now. It’s a group in a state of flux.

But, there is optimism these Marlins will find a way out of the cellar of their own division.

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If you are a wrestling fan, you will understand when I say, “You Can Believe That.”

Like other baseball franchise in turmoil or catastrophic change, there are growing pains. The Houston Astros understand it. The Chicago Cubs know about it. The Atlanta Braves just went through it. All three could be playoff teams this season. There was no reason to believe the Marlins would be wild card contenders this season.

In the back of my mind, I am starting to think this will be a dominant club in two more years. The wait will be less than Jeter expected. It will quell the disappointment of fans wanting more than another high draft pick.

Want a few reasons for my optimism for the second half of the season, here you go.

Young Pitching

The Marlins’ youth movement has already shown signs of success. Sandy Alcantara and Pablo Lopez look to be front-line pitchers. Trevor Richards, Caleb Smith, and others have proven they can pitch on the Major League level.

Veterans Dan Straily and Jose Urena have provided balance, even if their records don’t show it. If this continues, the win-loss totals will change for the better.

The Bullpen is Real

Adam Conley has settled in nicely with his new role. Drew Steckenrider has been a solid rookie in relief. Drew Rucinski has been a pleasant surprise since being called up from Triple-A New Orleans.

Brad Ziegler has transitioned well from his closer’s role to set-up man. Kyle Barraclough is one of the best in the Majors. Things can only get better as the second half of the season is on the horizon.

Timely Hitting

Brian Anderson collected his 100th hit on Monday, which is the most of any Marlins player before the All-Star game in team history. Miami has young players making an impact offensively and defensively.

J.T. Realmuto is the team’s best player and will play in his first All-Star Game.

Starlin Castro, Derek Dietrich and Miguel Rojas have been pleasant surprises this season. JT Riddle may have found a home at shortstop. When he is healthy, Martin Prado contributes in the field and at the plate. Justin Bour is still the power in the middle of the lineup.

If Lewis Brinson can return from injury and hit the ball, this lineup could be potent.

Next: Miami Marlins Prospect Daniel Castano

The Marlins still have a few games remaining until the All-Star break, but could use these contests to build momentum. A couple more wins before the break, coupled with some surprises could mean 70 wins on the season.

A 70-win season would be a success story as far as I am concerned. This is still a team of questions. But the organization may be finding answers sooner than it expected.