With The Florida Marlins off season thus far, one thing is clear. The franchise would prefer to remake itself rather than go forward with their latest collection of players who are about to make a lot of money through the arbitration process.
As of last season, the Marlins wisely broke the bank and locked up Hanley Ramirez for the long term. By doing so, they are making him the cornerstone to build the team around. It seems money spent wisely as Hanley almost delivered another 5 category season with 30 HRs, 35SB, 301BA, 125R, but fell short with the RBIs with only 67. Make no mistake, a .301/.400/.540 does not indicate he has many shortcomings with what he does with his bat.
However, he did start to slump playing in the three hole in the lineup, and was promptly moved back to leadoff. Now with Bonofacio in the mix, he is almost certain bat leadoff. That means they plan to use Hanley in the three hole. They have Cantu who will play primarily at first base, but will play some at third. But, the question remains about 2nd base. Uggla started his career as a third baseman, but worked with Wally Backman to learn the second base position while with Arizona. Bonofacio, is a second baseman by trade. He could play some third, and even play some outfield as well. The Marlins would be smart to hang onto Uggla. This is a modern day Who’s on First!
Filed under: Marlins, National League
