As the Miami Marlins wrap up their season, several player developments have emerged that could shape the organization's future. With a surprising finish of 79-83, the Marlins look to build on their momentum heading into the offseason.
Rising Stars Contribute
Among the standout performers this season was outfielder Heriberto Hernández. The 25-year-old rookie demonstrated impressive skills, finishing the year with an above-league-average hitting profile in 87 games. His .341 weighted on-base average (wOBA) and five Outs Above Average (OAA) in defense have solidified his place as a potential platoon hitter for the Marlins. Hernández's ability to contribute both offensively and defensively has caught the attention of management, suggesting a promising future.
Meanwhile, Liam Hicks, who spent the entirety of the 2024 season in Double-A, made headlines during the Rule 5 draft. His unique profile as a catcher with a strong hitting capability has piqued interest and he could become a significant asset moving forward.
Pitching Depth Remains Strong
On the mound, the Marlins have a wealth of talent, led by ace Sandy Alcantara. His presence at the top of the rotation has been pivotal, especially in key matchups against teams like the New York Mets. Alcantara's performance, paired with rookie Eury Perez, has been crucial in securing victories, showcasing the team's solid foundation in pitching.
Additionally, Tyler Phillips and Edward Cabrera are expected to play vital roles in the pitching staff next season. Their development will be critical as Miami looks to capitalize on its strong rotation, which could be the backbone of future playoff runs.
Strategic Moves Pay Off
The Marlins' success this season can also be attributed to strategic moves made in the offseason. The organization avoided splashy acquisitions and instead focused on building depth through players like Ronny Henriquez and Ryan Weathers, whose performances have surpassed expectations. By honing in on these marginal gains, Miami has crafted a competitive roster capable of surprising the league.
Analysts have noted that this approach mirrors the successful strategies of established teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, suggesting that the Marlins' future playoff aspirations are grounded in a solid framework.
TL;DR
- The Miami Marlins finished the season with a surprising 79-83 record.
- Rookie Heriberto Hernández excelled with a .341 wOBA and strong defense.
- Sandy Alcantara, alongside Eury Perez, is a key component of a strong pitching rotation.
- Strategic depth moves have contributed to the team's unexpected competitiveness this season.