Catcher J.T. Realmuto Is This Year’s Miami Marlins MVP

MIAMI, FL - JUNE 30: J.T. Realmuto #11 of the Miami Marlins runs after hitting a 2-RBI double in the sixth inning against the New York Mets at Marlins Park on June 30, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - JUNE 30: J.T. Realmuto #11 of the Miami Marlins runs after hitting a 2-RBI double in the sixth inning against the New York Mets at Marlins Park on June 30, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

When you look at who could be the Miami Marlins MVP this season, it’s catcher J.T. Realmuto. There is no need to debate this. No other player comes close.

Looking at the current state of the Miami Marlins organization and further analyzing the current roster, is there any question catcher J.T. Realmuto is this year’s team MVP?

It’s not even close. Save your arguments for some other writer. Realmuto, the first time All-Star and one of the best, if not the best catcher in Major League Baseball this season, has been the straw that has stirred a very weak drink for this organization.

The fact there is still talk about the team’s future with and without the team’s only star player speaks to how much he means to the franchise and how other teams covet his athleticism.

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MLB.com put out a story outlining each MVP of all 30 teams. Realmuto was the runaway winner in South Florida.

"“Whether they were fueling postseason pushes, serving as veteran leaders on young teams or captivating fans with breakout campaigns, these standouts provided baseball fans around the country with the most exciting storylines of the regular season,” the story explains."

Realmuto began the season on the disabled list with a contusion to his back and became an instant power source and calming influence on a young roster that needed someone to step forward as a leader on the field and in the clubhouse.

Once a player who wanted out of South Florida with the sudden exodus of players via trade, the organization and the veteran met to discuss the future of this franchise.

Realmuto, and others bought into the blueprint owner Derek Jeter and manager Don Mattingly came up with. From a performer who was part of the “machine” Realmuto became “the man” in Miami.

"“The last remaining core player from an explosive 2017 lineup, Realmuto not only by default became the face of the franchise, but he’s also made the case that he’s the best catcher in the Majors,” the MLB.com piece continues."

He is batting .273 this season with 21 home runs and 73 RBI.

"“The 27-year-old leads his position in many major statistical categories. Realmuto was named to his first All-Star Game this year, and playing on a last-place team, the Oklahoma native embraced a leadership role on a young squad.”"

After this season is over, both Realmuto and his agent and the Marlins should discuss his future. There should be plenty of suitors who inquire about his trade value. It might be best to allow him to remain a Marlins player for life. He has helped this young pitching staff this season. It would be a solid move to keep him around to help this team reach the playoffs in the next few seasons.

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