2021 MLB Team Preview: Miami Marlins

The Miami Marlins found a way to slip into the postseason last year despite a 31-29 record, but it doesn’t seem like they will be able to do that again this year. Are they a team that’s on the rise or was last year more of a fluky circumstance? We take a closer look.

What Happened Last Year

The Marlins were able to get a huge boost last season because of the minimal number of games played. In a normal season, this was a team that would have likely lost 90 plus games but instead ended the year above .500. Although, even with a winning record, they were outscored by a whopping 41 runs in only 60 games. Not only were they a poor team defensively but offensively they were 21^st in the league in wOBA at .308 on the year. Their pitching staff was also placed 26^th in the league in FIP at 5.02. They were able to defeat the Chicago Cubs in the NL Wild Card Series though, 2-0. Before eventually getting swept themselves by the Atlanta Braves in the NL Division Series 3-0.

Offseason Changes

The Marlins laid low during the offseason, making a few minor changes to improve their roster but no dramatic splash. They did trade for Zach Pop in exchange for a player that still has not been announced yet, if Pop is able to recover nicely from Tommy John surgery then he could be a nice addition to this Miami team. They were also able to pick up Anthony Bass in free agency on a contract that could end up being a bargain for the Marlins if all goes well. Bass is coming off a solid 2020 season and is looking to improve once again in 2021. The team also said their goodbyes to Brandon Kintzler, as his $4 million option for the 2021 season was declined.  They also picked up Adam Duvall, who hit 16 home runs for the Atlanta Braves last season.

2021 Outlook

This current Marlins team has the potential to grow and morph into a roster that wins consistently but right now that is hard to anticipate. This definitely isn’t a team that has World Series aspirations and would be lucky if they sneak their way into the playoffs just like last year. They have a very young pitching unit that happens to be their strong suit as of right now, if their defense can show some overall improvement while their hitting takes a jump, we could see a much better Marlins team that is pushing .500 next year. However, with a full season, they could easily see themselves drop to the bottom of the NL East. Even if they remain fully healthy it is going to be hard to get higher than fourth place in that division.

Pick: 5^th In National League East