It’s Lewis Brinson’s time to show the Marlins what he has on the field

By David Levin | Feb 22, 2019

MIAMI, FL - JUNE 29: Lewis Brinson #9 of the Miami Marlins rounds the bases after hitting solo home run in the third inning against the New York Mets at Marlins Park on June 29, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

After high expectatons that were not met and injuries that curtailed his 2018 season, Lewis Brinson may be at a crossroads in his Miami Marlins career.

Just like everyone in camp for the Miami Marlins, Lewis Brinson wants to show exactly why he deserves a chance to be the team’s starting outfielder once again. He also wants to quiet whispers that have been plentifull this offseason that the youngster will face a make or break season in 2019.

I don’t think it is as bad as some fans or media members make it out to be. Injuries took away a nice chunk of his 2018 season. He did have 10 home runs and 30 RBI at the All-Star break. But a .198 batting average as a leadoff hitter is unacceptable in any organization. Brinson and the Marlins know things must get better, starting in Jupiter this month.

Remember as well, Brinson is still just 24 years old and developing as a player on the Major League level.

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"“With so much social media, it’s not easy to drown out all the noise. But because of his even temperament and strong work ethic, the Marlins are confident Brinson can turn things around and develop into an impactful Major Leaguer,” Joe Frisaro of MLB.com explained."

Brinson was the big puzzle piece the Marlins sought from the Milwaukee Brewers in the deal that sent Christian Yelich to the National League Central champs prior to last Spring Training. As of now, Yelich is winning the debate of which side made out the best.

Brinson wants to change that perception.

Manager Don Mattingly told the media during Fan Fest two weeks ago all three of the outfield positions were up for grabs, that everyone had a shot to make the roster. This might have been a message to Brinson, who is a solid defensive outfielder, especially in the expansive Marlins Park.

His time at the plate needs work and he must become a more disciplined hitter.

He finished 2018 with a slash line of .199/.240/.338, 11 home runs and 42 RBIs.

The batting average is what stands out the most about how the player must make huge gains to be considered a star to watch in the future for this organization.

"“All the outside noises, you’ve just got to block them out,” Brinson said. “I’ve been pretty good at that my whole life, not just in baseball. I had a pretty good upbringing, and just blocking out all the outside noise. The only person I need to please is myself.”"

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