Miami Marlins

Off-season Overview:

The Marlins off-season was pretty lackluster. Miami lost third baseman Brian Anderson to free agency but upgraded with Jean Segura who, when healthy, is a solid addition to the offense. They also traded for batting-average-guru Luiz Arraez from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for SP Pablo Lopez and 2 prospects. This was one of the more underrated offseason trades as the Marlins had and excess of quality starting pitching and was in desperate need for some more offense. We love a win-win for struggling organizations. On the other side of things, Miami possesses an exciting starting rotation with reigning Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcantara and didn't need to make any moves. Alcantara, along with Edward Cabrera, Jesus Luzardo, Trevor Rogers, and Braxton Garrett are all between the ages of 24 and 27 and have a high ceiling. Miami added a veteran arm in Johnny Cueto whose numbers don't match his declining velocity. Nonetheless, a veteran presence goes a long way. The Marlins may rely on prospects Max Meyer and Sixto Sanchez (if healthy) throughout the season and, to be honest, Miami has nothing to lose in calling up young prospects. As a whole, the offense is FINE. Jazz Chisholm is as exciting as players come and the organization certainly has talent, but the Marlins are not spending the money to compete in the NL East - right Jeets?

Ceiling:

A 4th place finish in the NL East. While the Marlins improved, they are competing in one of the best divisions in baseball. Miami can pitch with anyone, but they lack the depth and offensive ability to outlast the Mets, Braves, and Phillies. At best, the Marlins can win 80 games but still miss the playoffs.

Floor:

A last place finish in the NL East. A few injuries in Miami and the Marlins are in a bad spot fast. They are competing with Washington in a battle for last place and it's a toss up, especially if things don't go as planned. A few miscues and bad bounces Miami is back to the bottom.

My Prediction:

A 4th place finish in the NL East. The starting pitching and improved offense will make the Marlins better than they were last year, but they cannot compete in this division. Miami will finish 4th in the division above an abysmal Nationals team, but Miami has a bright future with their excess of young talent and some fruitful spending (if that is possible in Miami). This is not Miami's year.

--Cyrus Beermann