Marlins Outfielders Brinson, Cooper May Return From DL Shortly

The Miami Marlins may get a much-needed boost in their lineup with the return of outfielders Lewis Brinson and Garrett Cooper from the disabled list.

"Per MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro, the Miami Marlins hope both Lewis Brinson and Garrett Cooper return for the last few weeks of the 2018 season. The team wants Cooper, especially, to get more at-bats after a season that has been basically lost to injury."

Brinson went on the disabled list prior to the MLB All-Star break with a bruised hip, however, the injury turned out to be more severe than first thought. He was hitting only .186 at the time of the injury but had 10 home runs and 30 RBI.

Both players could help the Marlins finish the season on a positive note.

"“[Brinson] is getting closer, as long as he continues to progress without any setbacks,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly said. “He’s taking BP. He’s working in the cage. That intensity is ramping up all the time, doing outfield drills. He’s getting himself ready to play.”"

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The only problem that may exist with bringing both players back from the disabled list at the end of the season would be playing time. The late-season roster additions may make it difficult for either outfielder to get 100 at-bats in the remaining six weeks of the season.

Both players are currently under the care of the Marlins medical staff. Cooper has had a wrist injury that has dogged him almost the entire season.

"“Coop is another guy I’d like to get another 100 at-bats, hopefully,” Mattingly said. “We haven’t really seen him get any kind of rhythm. He’s one guy we really want to find out what he can do. We’ve talked about him possibly playing some winter ball, getting him some more at-bats.”"

Cooper came over with pitcher Caleb Smith from the New York Yankees over the summer. Smith has been on the disabled list with an injured Lat that required surgery. Brinson was the prized trade piece in the deal that sent Christian Yelich to Milwaukee.

Mattingly acknowledged Brinson was swinging the bat better despite the low average. When he went down with the injury, he was second on the team in home runs. Defensively, he had been solid in center, learning how to adjust to the Major Leagues from former Marlins player, Cameron Maybin.

"“His swings were shorter, his takes were better. Not necessarily that he was getting a ton more hits, but you just would see a lot more progress in his at-bats,” Mattingly said.“We’re getting him back into game speed. We’re looking forward to getting him 100 at-bats or so before the season ends.”"

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