MIAMI MARLINS (41-57, 4TH PLACE, NL EAST) KEY SERIES
BIG PICTURE
This was always going to be a difficult season after the Derek Jeter-led Marlins traded Giancarlo Stanton, Christian Yelich, Marcell Ozuna and Dee Gordon in the offseason. It didn’t help that catcher
J.T. Realmuto, the Marlins’ best remaining player, began the season on the disabled list. It didn’t help that Martin Prado, their stabilizing veteran, spent more than a month on the DL because of a hamstring injury. Or that Caleb Smith, their most successful starting pitcher, was lost for the season in late June because of a lat strain that required surgery. Their 4-12 start was predictable.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Since his return, Realmuto has justified the Marlins’ belief that he could be their centerpiece going forward.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Brian Anderson took advantage of the Marlins’ decision to trade their 2017 outfield. He has been Miami’s secondbest player behind Realmuto.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
The Marlins were thrilled to get South Florida product Lewis Brinson from the Milwaukee Brewers in the Yelich trade, but he struggled early before hitting .267 in June. Now he’s on the disabled list because of pain in his right hip.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
The price will be exorbitant, but teams will call about Realmuto and top reliever Kyle Barraclough. at New York Mets Sept. 28-30
Danny Knobler