Why Jose Iglesias makes sense as a low-cost option to add OMG to the Miami Marlins

The Miami Marlins enter the 2024 MLB offseason with a shortstop problem. Ironically, the club appears flushed with middle infielders. Xavier Edwards was electric in his first proper stint in MLB. Connor Norby showed surprising pop and flashed his potential to become an above-average hitter. Otto Lopez also emerged as the team's best defender.

The Issue at SS

Unfortunately, all of these assets lack at least one key trait as potential shortstops. Edwards was a superb contact hitter and base stealer. However, his advanced fielding metrics were atrocious during his time at shortstop. He very much profiles as a second baseman.

Norby was a fascinating combo of power and speed. However, his metrics showed he was not suited to play third base. He too, seems locked into a role at first base, second base, or DH.

Lopez on the other hand, showed stellar defensive range, speed, and glovework. The 26-year-old lacks arm strength. But he is the only established Marlin who could realistically shift to SS.

The situation is even more pressing, considering that Miami does not have any minor league shortstops of note in their farm system. Perhaps #6 overall prospect Carter Johnson could develop into a long-term option. However, the 18-year-old isn't a realistic option to make a major league impact until at least 2028. The Marlins need to add low-cost depth to their shortstop position as soon as possible.

How Jose Iglesias Could Help On the Field

New York Mets' breakout star Jose Iglesias profiles as a perfect short-term option for Miami. The 12-year MLB veteran and journeyman found new life as a key contributor to the Mets NLCS run. A career .283 hitter, Iglesias set a career-high with a blistering .337 average across 270 at-bats.

While the last career bust in batting average is likely to regress to the mean, he is still a very dangerous contact hitter. Additionally, Iglesias has long drawn praise for his skilled glovework. The former top prospect once had Gold Glove aspirations. Even at 34 years old Iglesias's defense regularly drew praise from the Mets' broadcast team and fans alike.

He has the instincts, glove skills, and range to properly man the shortstop position, while also making consistent contributions as a hitter. While he mostly played 2B and 3B in New York, Iglesias has primarily been a shortstop throughout his career and played the position full-time as recently as 2022.

How Iglesias Could Help Off the Field

Spotrac currently has Iglesias' market value set at just $1.7 million per season. While this will likely jump after his heroics with the Mets, it stands to reason he will remain a low-cost option that would fit in the Marlinss budget.

Iglesias' value as a clubhouse presence also cannot be overstated. His "OMG" movement was the perfect anthem for the underdog Mets in 2024. His energy, leadership, and consistency in the clubhouse had a tangible effect on his club's on-field play.

The Marlins are currently undergoing a franchise reset under new President Peter Bendix. Manager Skip Schumaker and his entire staff have all been let go. And the club is attempting to establish a new identity as they set their focus on the future.