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FanPulse: Marlins fan confidence continues to surge thanks to young, deep starting rotation

Nearing the halfway mark of the regular season, 73% of those surveyed say they like the long-term direction of the Marlins franchise. It’s the highest that number has been since Opening Day.

By Ely Sussman

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MLB: Washington Nationals at Miami Marlins Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Welcome to SB Nation FanPulse, a survey of fans across MLB. Each week, we send 30 polls to plugged in fans from each team. Marlins fans, sign up HERE to join FanPulse.

Addressing the elephant in the room immediately, the Marlins just got swept by the Nationals. Thursday night was especially deflating as Sandy Alcantara blew a three-run lead (and in the process, likely blew his chances at an NL All-Star selection). The Fish have the worst home record in the NL.

But heading into this homestand, Miami’s young starting pitchers have given us reasons to be encouraged about the future. Caleb Smith, José Ureña and Pablo López got injured, and seamlessly, Elieser Hernandez, Jordan Yamamoto and Zac Gallen are stepping up. The rotation depth that looked so promising at the end of spring training has materialized in real games.

Fittingly, fan confidence in the rebuild as measured by SB Nation FanPulse earlier this week (73%) is at its highest point since Opening Day:

As covered on Fish Stripes recently in multiple formats, the Tampa Bay/Montreal Rays situation doesn’t directly relate to the Marlins. However, it reignited the conversation about which cities should have MLB franchises...and who should foot the bill for them.

FanPulse respondents have weighed in:

Seven-and-a-half seasons into their new venue, the Marlins still struggle to motivate fans to come out and support the team. Radio broadcaster Glenn Geffner is determined to see that change. He joined the Fish Stripes podcast on Thursday to discuss.

Meanwhile, CEO Derek Jeter seems to be taking preliminary steps to make Little Havana more inviting.

We will continue to monitor that developing story, and hope that you will continue participating in FanPulse!

More polling and illustrations next week! Sign up here to give us a balanced representation of the Marlins fanbase.

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