Miami Marlins Winter Meetings top 3 needs according to Brian Dunleavy

2 - Marlins need a power hitter

The Miami Marlins lineup had the worst run differential of any playoff team by a large margin. As we have wrote about plenty of times, the Marlins had a bottom 1/4 of the league ranking in home runs, runs, and RBI. They need more run production, and some of that is due to no situational hitting last year. One thing could change all of that, and that is signing a big time hitter that can fill out the middle of their lineup. 

I really think the Marlins top 3 in the lineup could look totally different if they sign a big time hitter. Luis Arraez should lead off as per usual, but if the Marlins can sign someone of quality or trade for someone like Randy Arozarena, they would fit right in the two spot. Arozarena would be perfect for the two hole and would provide Jazz and Bell some base runners to drive in. 

If the Arozarena shopping isn’t realistic or even happening who is the next best option? I really like Whit Merrifield and think he should be the guy next on the list for the Marlins. The free agent won’t be cheap but should be cheaper than Soler and is a well rounded player. Merrifield hit .272 with 11 home runs, 67 RBIs, and 26 stolen bases last season and hit 27 doubles. He will get on base and will be a perfect two hole player in front of Jazz and Bell.