Our Noticias, 2/21/20: Prospects steal the limelight

Spring Stories

Pitcher Edward Cabrera, shortstop Jazz Chisholm, and outfielder Monte Harrison are three names that Marlins fans will become very familiar with in the near future. They’re at the forefront of a wave of talent that will form the backbone of what will hopefully be a championship-caliber team. Yesterday, they had to put their friendships aside as they squared off in batting practice, with Cabrera on the mound.

The trio will likely start off as teammates at Triple-A Wichita to begin the 2020 season, but could very well be together on Miami's active roster come the end of the season.

More Than a Number

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It's Last Chance Saloon for Lewis Brinson this season due to two straight years of failing to reach the Mendoza line at the major league level after coming to the Marlins in the Christian Yelich deal as a blue chip prospect. Having worn number nine since making his debut in Miami, the South Florida native is switching to number 25 this season in honor of his father. With the change of number comes a new mindset, and another chance for him to flip the script and start to reach his potential. Even though Brinson has one more minor league option remaining, further struggles in Spring Training could spell the end of the front office's patience.

Safety First

Brian Anderson's 2019 season ended prematurely when he was hit by a 93.9 mph fastball from Vince Velasquez in August. Although the 26-year-old believes that the broken hand will not change his mindset in the batter’s box, he is still going to take extra precaution by wearing a protective hand guard throughout the season. Anderson was on a tear before he went on the injured list—sporting a .342/.433/.618 slash line that month—and showed impressive adjustments after a slow start to his sophomore season. The Marlins will need more of the same and more from their cornerstone third baseman to secure more wins in 2020.

First Loss of the Season

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The Marlins have lost their arbitration case against Jesús Aguilar. The first baseman will subsequently earn $2,575,000 over the course of the 2020 season—four times as much as he made last year while splitting time with both the Brewers and Rays. As a result of having to pay Aguilar $250,000 more than their final contract offer before opting for a hearing, the projected Opening Day payroll for the Fish is now $71.8 million. In comparison, that figure was $75.3 million a year ago.

The Kid Has Some Pop

Despite only showing flashes in his pro debut of the raw strength that led to an NCAA-leading 27 home runs in 2019, outfielder JJ Bleday has been named the most powerful Marlins prospect. Currently enjoying his first Spring Training camp, the 22-year-old will be looking to pick up some helpful tips from the likes of Miguel Rojas and Corey Dickerson, as well as test his approach against major league-caliber pitching. A major league debut is likely still more than a year away, but we will be getting another glimpse into the future over these next few weeks with Bleday at the plate in Grapefruit League play.