Powerful Marlins Looking For More Speed, Healthy Bullpen

After a strong offensive outburst in 2008, the Florida Marlins have to look forward to a better defensive effort in 2009.  With the loss of Mike Jacobs at first base, that should alleviate some problems.  Jorge Cantu will switch to first from third base, so surely Fredi Gonzalez and infield coach Andy Fox are optimistic that the defensive woes will be entirely solved.  Dan Uggla’s glove must also match his offense.

The reason for the optimism stems from a promising starting rotation, and the fact the club was 84-77 a year ago. The next step is to continue making strides to reach the postseason.  

The Marlins finished third in the very competitive NL East.   They do possess the most imposing offensive threat in shortstop Hanley Ramirez, their answer to Jose Reyes and Jimmy Rollins.  They have added more speed with the development of 21-year-old phenom Cameron Maybin and utility infielder Emilio Bonifacio in a trade from the Nationals in the offseason. 

The rotation will be carried by Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, and Chris Volstad.   They are all under 27 and will be there for many years to come.  Nolasco looks to emerge this year as he has been named the Opening Day starter against Washington on April 6th.   Lefty Andrew Miller and Anibal Sanchez will fill up the other rotation spots.  

The bullpen has been a mash unit this spring, so the health will be vital this season.  Scott Proctor needs to get back to being healthy after suffering from arm issues.

Interleague play was problematic as the Fish were a mediocre 5-10 against the AL, including getting swept by Tampa Bay.  This year they travel to Boston and host the Yankees in Miami in June. 

If both the pitching staff and the defense arrive at the same time, this is a very dangerous ball club.  They will score runs.  It will just be a matter of if they can hold leads down the stretch.  Matt Lindstrom throws major gas in the triple digits, so his change-up will need to be as good as his flame throwing fastball for success.