Miami Marlins morning news: Pitchers and catchers report to Jupiter

Marlins News

Miami is rightfully confident heading intro spring training, but in order to be successful, the squad must find an identity. A group of veterans and young arms should prove to help the club, but as MLB.com's Joe Frisaro points out, Giancarlo Stanton must be healthy:

Stanton's goal of playing in every game in 2014 was cut short when he was struck in the face by a pitch at Milwaukee on Sept. 11. The slugger sustained multiple facial fractures and dental damage. He will wear a face guard on his helmet in the spring, and all eyes will monitor how he responds.

Jack McKeon always believed in depth, and since the Marlins have just that heading into spring training, the former manager believes Miami should be successful. McKeon respects the front office's moves and understands change is sometimes necessary to win.

Frank Menechino is still Miami's hitting coach, but he now has some help. Lenny Harris will serve as the club's assistant hitting coach, which should prove to be beneficial for some of the club's younger bats.

A.J. Ramos is not concerned with the high expectations for 2015. After improving by 15 wins in 2014, the Marlins are expected to take another step forward.

Can Miami's postseason drought end in 2015? It could happen.

The Marlins want to contend now. And after the Stanton extension, who can blame them for that?

In case the Marlins' outfield is not talented enough, Reed Johnson is back.

Around The League

Doug Fister is excited about throwing with Max Scherzer, who Washington added earlier this offseason. Both could give the Marlins trouble.

Jurickson Profar is going to have right shoulder surgery, and may be out for the entire season.

Shane Victorino does not want a spot on the bench. He has made that clear.

The Phillies are still happy with Cole Hamels. For now.

At Fish Stripes

Miami Marlins are underdogs in 2015 - Fish Stripes

The projections have the Marlins missing the playoffs again in 2015. Will this prediction become a reality when the calendar flips to October?

Marlins stuck with current roster for multiple years thanks to trades - Fish Stripes

Like it or not, your 2015 Miami Marlins roster may very well be your 2016 Marlins roster. And your 2017 roster. Without outside assistance, the Marlins' roster is locked into place for the foreseeable future.

Marlins not expected to add reliever before Spring Training begins - Fish Stripes

Francisco Rodriguez, Phil Coke, and Joba Chamberlain were all options, but the Marlins appear content heading into spring training.

Critical year for Marlins overshadowed prospect Felix Munoz - Fish Stripes

Overshadowed left-handed hitting first base prospect Felix Munoz finally has a chance to legitimize himself as a top prospect in the Miami Marlins farm system.

Marlins put in bid to host 2017 World Baseball Classic - Fish Stripes

The Marlins are trying to bring another high profile event to Miami. The Marlins have put a bid in to host semifinal games or the championship game of the 2017 World Baseball Classic.