The Miami Marlins have several holes to fill this offseason, which is especially surprising considering they made the playoffs. The Marlins however have several role players and a few highly overplayed players that need to be addressed. We will look at in order from biggest need to least in a top 4 ranking list and why.
1st need DH - the Marlins need more bats to compete and make it back to the playoffs
A big time bat to go between DH and his normal position. The Marlins are likely losing Soler who was their primary DH so they need a quality bat to anchor the lineup moving forward. The Marlins can look to both signing a free agent and to trades if the right offer comes along. The Marlins can use any position player for DH so it’s really a matter of finding the best available bat.
2nd Outfield - with 1 or 2 players on the way out, the Marlins need an outfielder
This might come as a surprise to you but I believe the Marlins have a huge need in the outfield. Can you count on Jazz Chisholm for a full season out there, I would think not. If I were the Marlins GM I am looking for a power hitting outfielder so that when I lose Jazz the impact is lessened. I would even trade for one to go with a free agent signing so you have a solid backup, that is if we can get rid of Avisail Garcia.
3rd Shortstop - the Marlins ongoing need at short needs attention
I only put shortstop third because it will be the most difficult one to find a huge impact player. It won’t be cheap to add a shortstop of quality so it might be best to look for a middle of the road shortstop and spend time focusing on power positions for big bats. The need is there and if they can get a shortstop that is a big bat they go up on the list of priorities.
4th Catcher - this might be the easiest to upgrade, and it needs to happen
Catcher is another position like shortstop that it is hard to find a quality player for the Marlins budget. As such, the Marlins will need a catcher and should look for a quality one in one area at least to make up for the other weaknesses. Finding a big time defensive catcher would be great and they won’t have to pay too heavily. Finding a big bat will be too hard so they should go for a quality defensive catcher who can hit decently.
Not on the list but needed:
Starting pitcher for a year, righty relief pitcher, first base potentially
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