Marcell Ozuna is guiding Miami’s offense

When all the Marlins seemingly needed to do was add starting pitching depth to improve days after the end of the 2016 season, outfielder Marcell Ozuna’s name was consistently mentioned in trade rumors.

Ozuna is a controllable outfield piece who has proven to have notable power, and as a result, his name was brought up in rumors as Miami sought starting depth. After losing their ace, though, the Marlins opted to improve their staff via the free agent market. That tactic, to this point, has paid off.

Ozuna, 26, has emerged as one of Miami’s most consistent offensive threats early in 2017. Over Miami’s first eight games, he hit .400 with three home runs and 12 RBIs, which leads the National League.

And that total increased Thursday with his grand slam against the Mets:

It’s still very early, but Ozuna is making his presence in Miami’s lineup felt. And as the season progresses, that will only become more valuable.