Marlins must keep the “new” momentum going

After showing off their new colors and logo, what is the next step in the Miami Marlins plan to forge a new identity in south Florida?

New colors. Check. New logo. Check. Removal of the home run statue in centerfield. Check. Renewed excitement in Miami Marlins baseball. Check.

Everything is going according to plan. The Marlins remain a hot topic in MLB circles as the team unveiled its new look for the 2019 season and beyond. Finally, it looks like the little baseball franchise in South Florida is taking big steps toward becoming relevant again.

A few more wins and a couple of big-name players added the roster and the team that Derek Jeter is building will remain at the front of baseball news throughout the offseason. My friend and huge Marlins fan, Adam Carey would agree it’s a good time to love baseball.

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The Marlins have changed the narrative once again. As the news of J.T. Realmuto’s desire to depart the organization swept through the city like hurricane-like winds, Jeter and the front office replaced the concerns of the future roster with excitement. New colors and a new logo to honor the baseball community of the past with the future promise of success.

This time, the Yankees icon swung for the fences and hit a home run.

"“Thursday’s unveiling didn’t come unexpectedly since the Marlins social media account had sent out teasers for more than a week — providing glimpses of the colors and new uniforms,” writes Joe Frisaro of MLB.com. “On their tweets were #OurColores (colors in Spanish) and the date of 11.15.”"

The Marlins, who signed international prospects Victor Victor Mesa and Victor Mesa, Jr in October, are riding a high that in most cases is reserved for winning franchises. Making changes to Marlins Park and giving fans a glimpse of the future is as big a win for the city of Miami as there has been concerning baseball in some time.

Now, Jeter, Chip Bowers, and Michael Hill must continue to throw fastballs this winter, hoping to keep the high tide of excitement.

"“We want to put our own mark on the organization,” Jeter said. “We have a plan, we want to build an organization that we can be proud of and Miami can be proud of … I think it differentiates the past, the present, and the future. It was important for us to do this. We’re extremely proud of our new logo, our new colors. We think it’s reflective of the Miami culture. We think it captures the energy, the diversity of Miami. We’re extremely proud, and we feel our fans will be as well.”"

The Marlins could take another step forward and still acquire talent this offseason to help the offensive woes that plagued the 63-98 team from last season. There is no power in the middle of the lineup and the roster is still fairly raw with talent. The team is also looking for a veteran pitcher or two to add to the rotation or the bullpen.

As the organization continues to show off its changes with pride, the baseball community is alive and well in South Florida. Change usually does a franchise some good. It could mean a bump in ticket sales and fan interaction next season. At least for now, it means there is more to talk about in Miami other than what this team may lose this offseason.

For now, everything happening with the team is a major win.