The Marlins mean business. They spent their last few seasons preparing young talent for the major stage, and from what we saw in training, there was a lot of potential in the camp. Indeed, the future looks bright in Miami. Here we look at the standout performers worth a mention, using the top 2020 trends of gathering stats.
Jazz Chisholm—He was only acquired last July from D-backs, but he has settled fast to life as Marlin’s No. 3 prospect. The 22-year old is already listed in the 40-man roster, after spending the whole of last year at Double-A Jackson, then switched to Double-A Jacksonville after the swap. If he’ll be able to cut down on the strikeouts, he may reach the big leagues by the end of this year.
Edward Cabrera—In 11 starts, he posted a 2.02 ERA, and 58 innings last year at Class A Advanced Jupiter. In his 8 Jacksonville starts, he went 4-1 with a 2.56 ERA, but his 100 mph velocity in his last league appearance still beats many pitchers’ fastball. There are high chances Cabrera could start off at Triple-A Wichita, but if his fastball is consistent, he is primed for the big leagues. Pitching-wise, left fielder Corey Dickerson loves how Cabrera throws 100 with consummate ease, and how at ease he has been around everyone.
Jerar Encarnacion—He is only 22 years old, but he stood out in the Arizona Fall League, following that up with a game-changing performance in the Championship game where his side Salt River Rafters club won it. Encarnacion is not included in the 40-man roster but his performances could see him progressing towards the big leagues. Marlins shortstop Miguel Rojas is quite convinced about Encarnacion’s abilities, and believes his power could see him become a guy for the middle of the lineup.
Pablo Lopez—An unfortunate shoulder injury confined Lopez to just 21 starts the whole of last year, a recurring injury that interrupted his 2018 season. He looks to have put all that behind him, and at the Spring Training, he was superb. Catcher Jorge Alfaro is happy to have Lopez back, and he was full of praise for the No. 3 starter’s mindset. Lopez will be hoping that the shoulder injury will not come back to haunt him this time around, and his aim is to be in the middle of a yet-to-be-announced rotation.
JJ Bleday—Only a year ago, JJ Bleday helped Vanderbilt to a national championship. He led the NCAA Division I with 27 home runs, which was quite remarkable by all standards. The Marlin’s No. 2 prospect played 38 times at Jupiter after signing, but it is not known whether he will start again at Jupiter or he could begin at Jacksonville. He more than impressed during his first Spring Training with the big league team. He has been hailed for his professionalism, and as a quiet player, he looks destined for big things.