Everybody knew it but it was not announced until now. Before Tuesday's contest against the Rays, the Marlins announced Giancarlo Stanton is out for the rest of the season. But at this point, that is not news.
Stanton, 25, has been out with a broken hamate bone that ultimately required surgery. He has been on the disabled list since June 27 and had given the fans and the media several reasons to believe he would play again this season. Stanton probably wanted to try and play again this season. At this point in the year, though, there is no point in rushing back.
Towards the end of the summer, Stanton appeared to be improving. He was taking swings and just days ago was seen taking live batting practice. Miami has consistently said he would not return unless he was 100 percent healthy. The same went for Jose Fernandez. Fernandez was on the DL but is now healthy and was determined to return. As determined as he could be, Stanton was unable to get to 100 percent. In a lost season, there is nothing wrong with that.
Throughout 2015, the Marlins have been plagued by injuries. Fernandez, Stanton, Christian Yelich and Carter Capps are among the Marlins who have spent time on the disabled list in 2015. Marcell Ozuna has struggled while Dee Gordon and Adeiny Hechavarria have thrived. Some signings and trades worked. Others did not. It is simply the nature of the game, but the Marlins have to ensure they have a healthy Stanton moving forward.
Stanton is easily the Marlins' biggest power threat and has proven to be their most consistent source of offensive production. Over 74 games before going down, he was batting .265/.346/.606 to complement 27 home runs and 67 RBIs. When he gets hot, so does the Marlins' offense. It is not much of a coincidence.
This offseason, the Marlins will once again try and build around Stanton. They reportedly want to add starting pitching and will likely have an opportunity to compete for a National League East title. A healthy Stanton might be more significant than any piece they are able to add, however.
Yes, Giancarlo Stanton is out for the remainder of the season. He will not be in the lineup for the final five contests of 2015. But this is not really news. It did not ever appear while he was on the DL there was much of a chance he would play again this season. And sure enough, that was the case.