Early Season Predictions: Covering the Miami Marlins

When the Miami Marlins played their final home game at Land Shark Stadium, newly named manager Ozzie Guillen suddenly emerged from the dugout and waved to the crowd.

Thus began quite possibly the most exciting offseason the franchise has had in its short history.

Weeks later, the new-look Marlins made three big splashes in the winter meetings. 

Closer Heath Bell quickly accepted a three-year contract.  Former New York Mets shortstop and National League Batting Title winner Jose Reyes put pen to paper and reached a six-year deal worth over $100 million. Mark Buehrle, known for logging massive innings, joined the crew with a four-year deal. 

Even CJ Wilson and Albert Pujols had the chance to join the crowd before electing to go to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

The question now: Will the Marlins have enough to compete in the NL East? 

Considering their team as a whole, if everyone stays healthy, Miami has a chance to compete for the division or win the wild card.

Bell, 34, was a signing that should help booster the bullpen.  With the future of Juan Oviedo—formerly known as Leo Nunez—in doubt, Bell is someone who can step in to close games out. 

He has had quite a solid run in San Diego in the past few years. The numbers last year, though, put into question whether he will be able to deliver what Miami offered him. 

Besides Johnathan Papelbon, who signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, Bell was a great second option. 

Reyes, 28, comes as another risky, but worth it, signing for Miami.  He is an extremely talented shortstop who can hit for a high average and show power at the plate.

He is a solid fielder, but there is a downside to that.  Reyes is known for his visits to the disabled list.  It is essential for Reyes to stay healthy in 2012 to keep the Marlins afloat both offensively and defensively.  

It appears things are off to a good start. Hanley Ramirez is willing to move to third base, according to a report by ESPN.

Buehrle, 32, is an improvement to a young pitching staff that consists of ace Josh Johnson, Anabel Sanchez, Ricky Nolasco and Chris Volstad. 

Buehrle is a workhorse; he has pitched over 200 innings in 11 straight seasons.  He has a 161-119 career record with a solid 3.83 earned run average. 

If Johnson can stay healthy, rather than be on the sidelines, the pitchers will make a nice one-two punch, with Nolasco at three and Sanchez following at four.

The Prediction

If Miami makes no other moves this offseason—they are still looking to add Matt Garza at the least—the Marlins are a 84-88 win team.

That's good enough for second place and a chance at the wild-card spot.  Any more additions—specifically to pitching or possibly a solid bat to the lineup—could bring this team to over 90 wins.