The Florida Marlins: Contenders or Trade Bait?

As the All-Star break approaches, the Florida Marlins look poised for a run at the playoffs. 

With a young pitching staff, a motley crew of relievers, and a horrendous defense behind them, the Marlins need to score many runs to win.  The good news is that the lineup is beginning to heat up, batting .275 with a .335 on base percentage in June.

It starts at the top with Chris Coghlan and Emilio Bonifacio.  When Coghlan took over the leadoff spot, Bonifacio was moved behind him where his speed and bunting ability becomes more effective, especially when Coghlan is on base. 

Together, they are beginning to, much like Juan Pierre and Luis Castillo did, set the bases for big hitters.  Hanley Ramirez, Jorge Cantu, Dan Uggla, and Cody Ross have a combined 49 home runs and 197 RBI in the first half.

Ramirez is the star, and he is starting to get comfortable in the third spot (.333, 12 HRs, 51 RBI).  Cantu and Uggla provide plenty of protection behind him while Ross (13 HRs and 45 RBI) has helped replace the power lost when the team traded Mike Jacobs. 

The bottom half of the order is still being worked out.

Jeremy Hermida was once a top prospect, but he is being outplayed by Brett Carroll.

Carroll might be a better fit for the Marlins because he improves the outfield defense and team speed. 

At catcher, John Baker and Ronny Paulino have been splitting time, and the platoon seems to work.  

The pitching staff is highlighted by Josh Johnson.  He is quickly becoming one of the best young pitchers in the game.  At 7-1 with a 2.76 ERA, he might be in line for his first All-Star selection. 

Ricky Nolasco is returning to form after a brief demotion to Triple-A New Orleans.  He is 2-1 with a 1.80 ERA since being called back. 

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