Take two of the best available right-handed free agent hitters off the market, and the Marlins might be out of luck.
After addressing the bullpen and starting rotation, the Marlins were rumored to be considering adding a right-handed hitter to complement Justin Bour at first base. However, with Chris Carter set to join the Yankees and Mike Napoli slated to return to the Rangers, Miami is unlikely to add a right-handed complement.
The Marlins are reportedly considering giving Bour more at-bats against left-handed pitchers, and now, that seems to be very likely. Bour hit .233 against lefties last season and has hit .223 in his career against southpaws.
Miami’s plan seems to be giving J.T. Realmuto an opportunity to play first base, with A.J. Ellis catching perhaps more often than a traditional backup would. Both are qualified candidates against lefties.
There is still a chance the Marlins add a right-handed bat, but it won’t be a big name. Entering spring training, that is probably OK.