East Notes: Hill, Hanley, Collins

Source: MLB Trade Rumors by Dan Mennella

The Red Sox finally received compensation earlier today for Theo Epstein's defection to the Cubs, adding reliever Chris Carpenter and a player to be named. Here's more on Boston and a couple other stray items of note out of MLB's East divisions:

• The Red Sox added left-hander Rich Hill to their 40-man roster and placed starter John Lackey on the 60-day DL in a corresponding move, tweets Tim Britton of the Providence Journal. The move is a show of faith in Hill's recovery from 2011 Tommy John surgery, according to Britton, and Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe tweets that Hill had an opt-out clause that he could have exercised early in Spring Training were he not on the 40-man. So, it appears the Sox didn't want to lose the lefty.
• Marlins slugger Hanley Ramirez said he has no problem moving to third base to accomodate the arrival of newly signed shortstop Jose Reyes, according to Tom D'Angelo of the Palm Beach Post. “I never said I’m not going to do it,” he said.
• Mets manager Terry Collins is under contract through 2013, though Brian Costa of the Wall Street Journal wonders whether the skipper will be retained beyond then if the Mets are ready to move past their current transitional phase.

Marlins Season Preview: Ramirez Reports and Plays Third Base

Source: FishStripes by Michael Jong

While I may have wanted to start the Marlins season preview with some original content, I could not help but begin with some interesting media content initially brought to my attention by Juan C. Rodriguez of the Sun-Sentinel. Pitchers and catchers report tomorrow (and our original preview content debuts tomorrow as well!), but guess who came in a little early to field some grounders?

Among those in Jupiter: Hanley Ramirez. Manager Ozzie Guillen’s

Reliever Oviedo unable to report to Marlins camp (AP)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

Reliever Juan Carlos Oviedo remains in the Dominican Republic, his travel restricted after he played under a fake name for seven major league seasons, and the Miami Marlins are uncertain whether he'll join them for any part of spring training. Formerly known as Leo Nunez, Oviedo is working with the U.S.

Miami Marlins video: Gaby Sanchez sings on Intentional Talk

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

For those of you who missed it, here is Gaby Sanchez’s appearance with former Marlin Kevin Millar on the MLB Network show Intentional Talk. Sanchez introduces fans to his dog Slugger and new puppy, Sterling, a silver lab.

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Hanley takes ground balls at 3B, discusses move (w/videos)

Source: Fish Bytes by Clark Spencer

     JUPITER -- Welcome from Roger Dean Stadium, where Marlins pitchers and catchers are reporting and we just finished watching Hanley Ramirez take ground balls at third base on one of the back fields. He didn't make any diving stops behind the bag or long throws to first. On the other hand, the Marlins have instructed Ramirez -- who is coming off surgery on his left shoulder -- not to dive after anything. "We want to keep him on his feet this spring," said Larry Beinfest, president of baseball operations.

     "I'm not going to go into my list of worries, but I wouldn't say it's at or near the top of the list," Beinfest said of the transition Ramirez is making from shortstop to third. "You just don't go sign Jose Reyes unless you are completely comfortable he is going to play third base and play it well. So I don't think there's a lot of concern there."

      Beinfest said he has no doubt that Ramirez will succeed defenively at third.

      "I think he can play just about anywhere on the field," Beinfest said. "There's only so many talents like him, and he'll be fine. He'll do it whether it's a slow roller, or going to his backhand. He's got the arm. He's got all the thing he needs to do to be successful over there. I don't think mechanically, at least in my mind, that will be super-challenging for him."

      As for Ramirez's off year at the plate last season, Beinfest said: "Never thought I'd see it. Really it's a blip. I'm confident that's all it was, a blip. That's just not who he is, and we do not forsee that happening (again)."

      As for Ramirez, we just finished speaking with him and I'll get his remarks up later. Nothing major. He said that, mentally, he's prepared to play third and doesn't have any issues with the move.

      For now, check out the video:

And here's what Hanley had to say about moving to third base:

Miami Marlins videos: Hanley Ramirez takes grounders, talks 3B

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Greetings from Jupiter on the eve of pitchers and catchers officially taking the field for the first time. Plenty of position players are in camp already as well, even though the first full squad workout isn’t until Sunday.

Among those in Jupiter: Hanley Ramirez. Manager Ozzie Guillen’s son, Oney, hit him fungoes at third base Tuesday afternoon. Ramirez spoke after his workout, saying he fine with the position switching and his surgically repaired left shoulder felt great. President of Baseball Operations Larry Beinfest offered his thoughts on Ramirez.

Told he was taking grounders at third, Beinfest joked: “How’d he do? Did he catch any?”

“I’m not going to go into my list of worries, but I wouldn’t say [Ramirez moving to third] is at or near the top of the list,” Beinfest added. “You just don’t go sign Jose Reyes unless you’re completely comfortable that he’s going to play third base and play it well. I don’t think there’s a lot of concern there.

“He’s Hanley Ramirez and he’s super talented. I think he can just about play anywhere on the field. I know that sounds a little canned, but there are only so many talents like him. He’ll be fine. He’ll be able to do it, whether it’s the slow roller or going to his backhand. He’s got the arm. He’s got all the things he needs to be successful over there.”

The Marlins have told Ramirez not to dive for balls during spring training.

Leading off for the Miami Marlins: Gaby Sanchez?

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Caught an episode of Clubhouse Confidential on MLB Network Friday. For those of you unfamiliar with the show, it takes an analytical look at the news of the day and other topics using non-traditional stats. It’s great for fans that want to familiarize themselves with sabermetric stuff.

One of the areas they covered was leadoff hitting. In addition to discussing what type of offensive player should be leading off, host Brian Kenny pointed out some guys in the game that should be batting first and others that shouldn’t. A couple of Marlins came up. Kenny’s quote: “[Gaby] Sanchez, not Jose Reyes, is a better leadoff candidate for the Marlins this year.”

Seems odd, right? Reyes after all is a prototypical leadoff man in the eyes of most baseball fans. Not so says Clubhouse Confidential because he has too much power. According to The Book: Playing the Percentage in Baseball, a leadoff man logs 36 percent of his plate appearances with runners on. That figure for the No. 2 hitter increase to 44 percent. For third and fourth hitters, 48 percent and 51 percent, respectively.

Based on that, teams that have a power hitter in the leadoff spot aren’t maximizing that pop. Reyes in 2011 slugged a career high .493 thanks in part to a league-leading 16 triples. He also totaled 31 doubles and seven homers. What the show didn’t mention is even after last season Reyes’ career slugging percentage is .441, which makes him a little more palatable as a leadoff man based on the aforementioned premise.

The other big stat for leadoff men is on-base percentage, a component of which is walks. Top of the order hitters come up with no outs in 48 percent of their plate appearances.The two through four spots are 33 percent, 28 percent and 34 percent, respectively. That means a walk is as good as a hit for leadoff men. Ideally, you want your leadoff man to draw a base on balls in 10 percent or better of his plate appearances.

Although Reyes had a .384 on-base percentage in 2011, his walk rate was 7.3 percent, raising his career average to 6.9 percent. Clubhouse Confidential tells us Reyes has too much power and doesn’t walk enough to hit first. Their alternative: Sanchez.

Sanchez had a .352 on-base percentage, walked in 11.2 percent of his plate appearances and slugged .427. Again, Clubhouse Confidential didn’t take into account the numbers from his 2010 rookie season (.341 on-base, .448 slugging and 8.9 percent walk rate).

One player the show did not mention was Emilio Bonifacio, who likely will bat first this season. Bonifacio had a breakout season in 2011, reaching base at a .360 clip and walking in 9.2 percent of his plate appearances. He doesn’t hit for power, plus he is a prolific base stealer, so I was surprised Clubhouse Confidential didn’t identify him as a better leadoff candidate than either Reyes or Sanchez.

From Twitter comments I’ve received, plenty of Marlins fans aren’t sold on Bonifacio. Manager Jack McKeon really got him playing with confidence last season. Bonifacio taking half a step back in 2012 wouldn’t surprise me. His batting average on balls in play last season was .372. In 2009, his BABIP was .312 and in 2010 it was .333. Anything much higher or lower than .300 suggests that player will see a regression or a rebound.

My Opening Night batting order: Bonifacio, Reyes, Ramirez, Stanton, Morrison, Sanchez, Buck, Infante, Johnson.

Single-game tix go on sale March 3 as part of FanFest

Source: Fish Bytes by Clark Spencer

     Single-game tickets to Marlins home games will go on sale March 3 as part of FanFest. The event is one in which fans can meet players, get autographs and take a walking tour through the new ballpark, as well as buy single-game ticket.

     Individual game tickets will be available for purchase starting at 10 a.m. on marlins.com and at the Marlins Park Box Office, which is located on the north side of the ballpark, between home plate and the third base entrances on Felo Ramirez Drive.

     FanFest will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Logan Morrison to wear No. 5 for Marlins (The Canadian Press)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

JUPITER, Fla. - Miami Marlins left-fielder Logan Morrison says the team is taking uniform No. 5 out of retirement so he can wear it as a tribute to his late father.

Marlins bring No. 5 out of retirement for Morrison (AP)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

Miami Marlins left fielder Logan Morrison says the team is taking uniform No. 5 out of retirement so he can wear it as a tribute to his late father. Tom Morrison died in 2010 of lung cancer. He idolized Hall of Famer George Brett, who wore No. 5. No Marlin has worn the number. It was retired in 1993 before the franchise's first game in honor of Carl Barger, who was team president when he died in...

Marlins' Ramirez takes grounders at 3B (AP)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

Hanley Ramirez is taking groundballs at third base, signaling he's willing to give his new position a try with the Miami Marlins. The All-Star shortstop was fielding practice grounders and lobbing throws to first. The workout Tuesday with a couple of other players came as pitchers and catchers reported for the start of spring training.

Hanley takes ground balls at 3B (w/video)

Source: Fish Bytes by Clark Spencer

     JUPITER -- Welcome from Roger Dean Stadium, where Marlins pitchers and catchers are reporting and we just finished watching Hanley Ramirez take ground balls at third base on one of the back fields. He didn't make any diving stops behind the bag or long throws to first. On the other hand, the Marlins have instructed Ramirez -- who is coming off surgery on his left shoulder -- not to dive after anything. "We want to keep him on his feet this spring," said Larry Beinfest, president of baseball operations.

     "I'm not going to go into my list of worries, but I wouldn't say it's at or near the top of the list," Beinfest said of the transition Ramirez is making from shortstop to third. "You just don't go sign Jose Reyes unless you are completely comfortable he is going to play third base and play it well. So I don't think there's a lot of concern there."

      Beinfest said he has no doubt that Ramirez will succeed defenively at third.

      "I think he can play just about anywhere on the field," Beinfest said. "There's only so many talents like him, and he'll be fine. He'll do it whether it's a slow roller, or going to his backhand. He's got the arm. He's got all the thing he needs to do to be successful over there. I don't think mechanically, at least in my mind, that will be super-challenging for him."

      As for Ramirez's off year at the plate last season, Beinfest said: "Never thought I'd see it. Really it's a blip. I'm confident that's all it was, a blip. That's just not who he is, and we do not forsee that happening (again)."

      As for Ramirez, we just finished speaking with him and I'll get his remarks up later. Nothing major. He said that, mentally, he's prepared to play third and doesn't have any issues with the move.

      For now, check out the video:

Marlins place no-diving rule on Hanley

Source: The Fish Pond by The Fish Pond

JUPITER, Fla. — Hanley Ramirez is healthy and ready to start Spring Training.

The one restriction the Marlins are placing on Ramirez is diving for balls at third base.

Otherwise, everything is full go for the 28-year-old third baseman, who is recovering from surgery to his left shoulder.

On Tuesday, the day before Marlins pitchers and catchers begin workouts at Roger Dean Stadium, Ramirez spent the morning and early part of the afternoon hitting and fielding.

Ramirez took ground balls at third base, while Omar Infante was at second.

The switch from shortstop to third base will be one of the most watched storylines for the Marlins in Spring Training.

Last week, Ramirez had a check-up visit with Dr. James Andrews, who performed the shoulder surgery last year.

“He’s cleared to go,” Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest said. “He saw Dr. Andrews last week, before the [charity] golf tournament. We’re going to try to keep him from diving on the shoulder during Spring Training, just to minimize anything going on there. But he’s fully cleared to go. He says he feels well.”

The Marlins are being cautious about diving, to avoid any further issues with the shoulder. But the team expects him to be at full-speed once the season starts on April 4 against the Cardinals at Marlins Park.

“We’re going to try to keep him on his feet in Spring Training,” Beinfest said. “There is no reason for him to dive right now.”

– Joe Frisaro  

 

Miami Marlins video: Hanley Ramirez takes grounders at 3B

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Greetings from Jupiter on the eve of pitchers and catchers officially taking the field for the first time. Plenty of position players are in camp already as well, even though the first full squad workout isn’t until Sunday.

Among those in Jupiter: Hanley Ramirez. Manager Ozzie Guillen’s son, Oney, hit him fungoes at third base Tuesday afternoon. Ramirez said he would talk to the media after taking batting practice. In the meantime, President of Baseball Operations Larry Beinfest offered his thoughts on Ramirez.

Told he was taking grounders at third, Beinfest joked: “How’d he do? Did he catch any?”

“I’m not going to go into my list of worries, but I wouldn’t say [Ramirez moving to third] is at or near the top of the list,” Beinfest added. “You just don’t go sign Jose Reyes unless you’re completely comfortable that he’s going to play third base and play it well. I don’t think there’s a lot of concern there.

“He’s Hanley Ramirez and he’s super talented. I think he can just about play anywhere on the field. I know that sounds a little canned, but there are only so many talents like him. He’ll be fine. He’ll be able to do it, whether it’s the slow roller or going to his backhand. He’s got the arm. He’s got all the things he needs to be successful over there.”

The Marlins have told Ramirez not to dive for balls during spring training. Last September, Ramirez underwent left shoulder surgery, but he won’t be limited this spring.

Hanley takes ground balls at 3B

Source: Fish Bytes by Clark Spencer

     Just finished watching Hanley Ramirez take ground balls at third base. He didn't make any diving stops behind the bag. On the other hand, the Marlins have instructed Ramirez -- who is coming off surgery on his left shoulder -- not to dive after anything. "We want to keep him on his feet this spring," said Larry Beinfest, president of baseball operations.

     "I'm not going to go into my list of worries, but I wouldn't say it's at or near the top of the list," Beinfest said of the transition Ramirez is making from shortstop to third. "You just don't go sign Jose Reyes unless you are completely comfortable he is going to play third base and play it well. So I don't think there's a lot of concern there."

     

    

Yahoo! Fantasy Baseball is Heating Up!

Source: FishStripes by Michael Jong

Most fantasy leagues are well on their way to creation and drafting, and if you're like me, you're excited. That's why Yahoo! Fantasy Baseball should be on everyone's mind as we start up the fantasy baseball season. The platform they provide you is top-notch, whether you are interested in playing a normal 5x5 roto league or the most kooky combination of statistical measures a league has ever seen. Whether it's roto, head-to-head, or any format you can think of, Yahoo! Fantasy Baseball has you covered. Yahoo! Sports is the leading fantasy provider and home to the #1 Fantasy Baseball game available - all for free! Here are some of the features:

Free live scoring
Mock drafts
Mobile apps
Over 80 scoring

Why Mike Stanton Will Win 2012 NL MVP

Source: Bleacher Report

One young player who can emerge as a MVP candidate in 2012 is Mike Stanton from the Miami Marlins.

This guy is a great athlete, standing 6'5" and weighing over 230 pounds.

And, he is only 22 years old.

As a rookie for the Marlins in 2010, Stanton hit 22 home runs in only 100 games, and added to those numbers in 2011 as he become their every-day right fielder. He hit 34 home runs in 150 games.

Not only did he improve his power numbers, but his discipline at the plate was much better in his sophomore season. Stanton improved on his walk and strikeout totals—in 2010, he walked 0.34 times per game compared to 0.47 times per game in 2011.

He struck out 1.23 times per game in 2010 and lowered that to 1.11 times per game.

These are the types of improvements made by players that lead them to superstar status.

Being disciplined at the plate and being able to lay off balls will help Stanton take more walks and strikeout less, increasing his numbers across the board. Being on base more helps your OBS, OPS, ability to steal more bases, ability to score more runs and, most importantly, ability to help your team win.

There are also things out of Stanton’s control that will help him develop as a player.

The Marlins made some nice additions this season and hope to improve their record of 72-90 from last year. Adding Heath Bell, Mark Buerhle and Carlos Zambrano is good news for their pitching staff, but the addition on Jose Reyes is great news for the offense, and particularly for Stanton.

Reyes is a great hitter and will get on base more in front of Stanton; giving him a great opportunity to improve on his 87 RBI’s that he tallied in 2011.  Also, Reyes could help Hanley Ramirez return to MVP form, which will also benefit Stanton.

Reyes, Ramirez and Stanton is an amazing trio to have at the top of a batting order.

The new ballpark could also lead to some recognition for this team full of young talent that many people overlook.

With all of these factors, Stanton is on the verge of a breakout year.

The 2012 season is his time to shine in South Beach.

Read more Miami Marlins news on BleacherReport.com

NL roundup: Posey won't block plate (Yahoo! Sports)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

The San Francisco Giants are eager to have Buster Posey back behind the plate this season - and stay there. Posey tore three ligaments in his left ankle and broke a bone in his lower leg in a home-plate collision with the Marlins' Scott Cousins last May, costing the 2010 NL...

How much do the off-season misses hurt the Miami Marlins?

Source: Marlin Maniac by Ehsan Kassim

Here are some staggering numbers to think about, the Miami Marlins spent $191 million dollars on free agents this off-season. If you have followed the Marlins franchise in it’s history, that comes as a major shock. The Marlins at the beginning of the off-season promised to spend big money to improve the team, and they came through on that promise.

February 3, 2012; Secaucus, NJ USA; Miami Marlins player Jose Reyes cuts his hair to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida on February 3, 2012 at the MLB Network in Secaucus. Mandatory Credit: George Napolitano/Pool Photo via US PRESSWIRE

There is however an even bigger number that involves the Marlins and their free agent spending this off-season. That number is $337 million. What is the significance of that number? Well, that is the amount of money that the Marlins have put on the table, only to be spurned this off-season.

The Marlins reportedly offered Albert Pujols a 10-year $201 million deal. C.J. Wilson was offered a 6-year deal in the excess of $100 million. Most recently, the Marlins offered Yoenis Cepsedes a 6-year $36 million. Pujols and Wilson signed deals with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Yoenis Cespedes chose to sign with the Oakland Athletics. Now that I think about it, damn you AL West!

December 10, 2011; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles owner Arte Moreno (center) poses for a photograph with first baseman Albert Pujols (left) and pitcher C.J. Wilson after a press conference at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-US PRESSWIRE

Larry Beinfest is not going to be someone who dwells on the lost opportunities. “I don’t know about the word ‘disappointment.” We wanted to add another quality player. We tried on Pujols. We tried on C.J. Wilson. We tried on Cespedes.” Beinfest still feels the Marlins have added enough this off-season to be legitimate contenders.

… [visit site to read more]

Josh Johnson: Why Miami Marlins Ace Will Win NL Cy Young

Source: Bleacher Report

As a fan, I sat in Sun Life Stadium on a warm, muggy Tuesday night in May of 2011 to watch, at the time, the two best pitchers in the National League square off in an epic duel. Josh Johnson and Roy Halladay put on a show in front of an unusually large and energetic crowd, and the Marlins won 2-1. 

When Johnson was injured not long after that game, he was leading the National League in ERA, the Marlins were still good, he had defeated the Braves and the Phillies and he had only allowed more than two runs in one of his nine starts.

My prediction obviously is tied directly to his ability to stay healthy, but if he can give the Marlins 30 starts in that brand new pitchers' park, he can post an ERA under 2.50 and lead the league in K/BB ratio. 

His velocity is back to where it was before the surgery a few years ago, and the injured shoulder seems to be close to 100 percent ready. Several things plagued him as far as national perception in past years. His team wasn't always competitive. His win totals weren't high because of poor run support and leads blown by the bullpen. Finally, the Marlins as a whole don't receive the media or fan support most other teams get. 

Well, in the year Johnson wins the Cy Young, all of that will change. The team will be better, and should be in outstanding position to make the postseason. The offense behind him is improved, and so is the bullpen who will follow his stellar starts. And let's not forget the boost in national coverage and in ticket sales that a new ballpark will provide the Marlins.

Prime example: Opening night of the stadium is April 4. Johnson will start for the Marlins against the world champion St. Louis Cardinals in front of a national ESPN audience, and set the tone for his Cy Young run. I don't know how many times FOX or ESPN carried Marlins games last season, but you can bet your life that number will be easily surpassed in the first month alone. 

Read more Miami Marlins news on BleacherReport.com

1997 v. 2003: Right Field Results

Source: Marlin Maniac by Ehsan Kassim

We have already taken a look at the catcher, first base, and second base, third base, and short stop, and left field, and center field positions. Here is a look at how the current team that you guys have voted on looks like:

• Catcher: Ivan Rodriguez
• First Base: Derrick Lee
• Second Base: Luis Castillo
• Short Stop: Edgar Renteria
• Third Base: Mike Lowell
• Left Field: Miguel Cabrera
• Center Field: Juan Pierre
• Right Field:
• Designated Hitter: Jeff Conine

When you mention the Marlins, a name that always pops into everyone’s mind is Mr. Marlin, Conine. I had to include him into this team somehow. The best option for him is DH! Right field is the final position for the Marlins all-World Series team. So who is the Marlins World Series right fielder? Drum roll please: … [visit site to read more]

Leading off for the Miami Marlins…Gaby Sanchez?

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Caught an episode of Clubhouse Confidential on MLB Network Friday. For those of you unfamiliar with the show, it takes an analytical look at the news of the day and other topics using non-traditional stats. It’s great for fans that want to familiarize themselves with sabermetric stuff.

One of the areas they covered was leadoff hitting. In addition to discussing what type of offensive player should be leading off, host Brian Kenny pointed out some guys in the game that should be batting first and others that shouldn’t. A couple of Marlins came up. Kenny’s quote: “[Gaby] Sanchez, not Jose Reyes, is a better leadoff candidate for the Marlins this year.”

Seems odd, right? Reyes after all is a prototypical leadoff man in the eyes of most baseball fans. Not so says Clubhouse Confidential because he has too much power. According to The Book: Playing the Percentage in Baseball, a leadoff man logs 36 percent of his plate appearances with the bases empty. That figure for the No. 2 hitter increase to 44 percent. For third and fourth hitters, 48 percent and 51 percent, respectively.

Based on that, teams that have a power hitter in the leadoff spot aren’t maximizing that pop. Reyes in 2011 slugged a career high .493 thanks in part to a league-leading 16 triples. He also totaled 31 doubles and seven homers. What the show didn’t mention is even after last season Reyes’ career slugging percentage is .441, which makes him a little more palatable as a leadoff man based on the aforementioned premise.

The other big stat for leadoff men is on-base percentage, a component of which is walks. Top of the order hitters come up with no outs in 48 percent of their plate appearances.The two through four spots are 33 percent, 28 percent and 34 percent, respectively. That means a walk is as good as a hit for leadoff men. Ideally, you want your leadoff man to draw a base on balls in 10 percent or better of his plate appearances.

Although Reyes had a .384 on-base percentage in 2011, his walk rate was 7.3 percent, raising his career average to 6.9 percent. Clubhouse Confidential tells us Reyes has too much power and doesn’t walk enough to hit first. Their alternative: Sanchez.

Sanchez had a .352 on-base percentage, walked in 11.2 percent of his plate appearances and slugged .427. Again, Clubhouse Confidential didn’t take into account the numbers from his 2010 rookie season (.341 on-base, .448 slugging and 8.9 percent walk rate).

One player the show did not mention was Emilio Bonifacio, who likely will bat first this season. Bonifacio had a breakout season in 2011, reaching base at a .360 clip and walking in 9.2 percent of his plate appearances. He doesn’t hit for power, plus he is a prolific base stealer, so I was surprised Clubhouse Confidential didn’t identify him as a better leadoff candidate than either Reyes or Sanchez.

From Twitter comments I’ve received, plenty of Marlins fans aren’t sold on Bonifacio. Manager Jack McKeon really got him playing with confidence last season. Bonifacio taking half a step back in 2012 wouldn’t surprise me. His batting average on balls in play last season was .372. In 2009, his BABIP was .312 and in 2010 it was .333. Anything much higher or lower than .300 suggests that player will see a regression or a rebound.

My Opening Night batting order: Bonifacio, Reyes, Ramirez, Stanton, Morrison, Sanchez, Buck, Infante, Johnson.

Fish Stripes Marlins Season Preview: Introduction

Source: FishStripes by Michael Jong

It is safe to say that this may be the most exciting season in Marlins history (I almost said "Miami Marlins" history, but of course, it is that team's first season). With Spring Training just around the corner for the Fish (pitchers and catchers report on February 22!), the season is almost upon us, and it is more prevalent then ever to preview what is in store for the Miami Marlins in their inaugural season at the new ballpark.

This is why Fish Stripes has stepped in to provide you the ultimate in season previews with the Fish Stripes Marlins Season Preview! Starting this week, we will delve into the various aspects of your 2012 Miami Marlins from an

Juan Carlos Oviedo still stuck in D.R., will not report tomorrow

Source: Fish Bytes by Clark Spencer

      Finally. Only one day remains before Marlins pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Jupiter. The Marlins, White Sox and Rangers are the last teams to get things going. The report date sounds much more significant than it actually is, as players are required to do nothing more than phone in and say, 'I'm here.' As far as actual activity is concerned, pitcher and catchers will conduct their first workout Wednesday afternoon -- after they've completed their medical physicals -- on the back diamonds at Roger Dean Stadium.

      Barring some unexpected turn of events, reliever Juan Carlos Oviedo will not be part of the festivities. The pitcher formerly known as Leo Nunez remains in the Dominican Republic as he continues to seek legal clearance to return to the U.S. The Marlins aren't sure when Oviedo will be given the green light. But team preident David Samson said last month that it is more likely than not that Oviedo will not be on the Opening Day roster. If and when Oviedo receives clearance -- and the consensus belief is that he will return at some point in the near future -- he could still face disciplinary action from the league.

      His absence helps assure competition for a bullpen spot or two, with relievers such as Jose Ceda, Chris Hatcher, Sandy Rosario, and Chad Gaudin (a non-roster invite) figuring to be in the mix. Barring injuries, the fixtures are expected to be Heath Bell, Mike Dunn, Ryan Webb, Edward Mujica, Randy Choate and Steve Cishek. That leaves two spots, one of which will presumably go to a long man.

Weekly Recap (2/13/12-2/19/12)

Source: Marlin Maniac by Ehsan Kassim

Have not done this in a while, but today we will get back into doing the weekly reviews. Weekly reviews help the readers get to articles that may have been glossed over during the week due to someone being busy. I will have one up each Monday recapping the past week.

Without any further ado, let me get this rolling.

… [visit site to read more]

Baseball's top stories won't overshadow the game (Yahoo! Sports)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

You can have Jeremy Lin and Tim Tebow. No one baseball story is likely to be bigger than the game in 2012. That's just fine.

Who is your favorite current Marlin?

Source: FishStripes by FishNFinz

You may like a player because of the way he carries himself on the field. You make like a player because of his unique personality. You may like a player based on the qualities that make him stand out. Emilio Bonifacio has the best speed. Mike Stanton has the big bat. Lomo has a unique personality. We all probably had a favorite player as a kid growing up for one of these reasons. Today I ask readers...

Poll Who is your favorite current Marlin? Josh Johnson
Ricky Nolasco
Mark Burhle
Anibal Sanchez
Carlos Zambrano
John

Miami Marlins: Cousins yields 33 to Rowand, claims 6 for Snow

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Knowing Scott Cousins, he would have given up his number 33 to Aaron Rowand even if No. 6 wasn’t available. Yet Rowand’s arrival as a Miami Marlins non-roster free agent presented Cousins a chance to recognize one of his childhood heros.

Cousins this season will wear 6 in honor of J.T. Snow, his favorite player growing up. A native of Reno, Nev., Cousins was a Giants fan and later played for the University of San Francisco. He still makes his offseason home in northern California. Last May, Cousins became persona non grata in the Bay area after a home plate collision with Buster Posey. It ended the reigning National League Rookie of the Year’s season and Cousins got hammered from Giants general manager Brian Sabean on down.

Cousins’ fortunes took a nosedive as well. A bulging disk in his back ended his season in June. Baseball America still ranks Cousins the ninth-best prospect in the Marlins’ system. Now 27, Cousins will compete with Bryan Petersen, Chris Coghlan, Rowand and fellow non-roster invitee Austin Kearns for a reserve outfield spot.

Some other number changes: Logan Morrison from 20 to 5; Steve Cishek from 66 to 31, the number Burke Badenhop vacated; Randy Choate from 35 to 36; Omar Infante from 12 to 13 (Ozzie Guillen will wear 13); and Petersen from 16 to 11.

Scott Cousins switches to No. 6 for J.T. Snow (AP)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

Scott Cousins will now be wearing No. 6 for the Miami Marlins, a tribute to his favorite player growing up: former Giants first baseman J.T. Snow. Why the switch? He wants new teammate Aaron Rowand -- another former Giant -- to keep his usual No. 33 when spring training begins. Cousins is already in Florida well ahead of the Marlins' first full-squad workout under new manager Ozzie Guillen set for...

Wild Pitch! 02/18/12

Source: FishStripes by FishNFinz

Submit your own funny caption to this weeks photo in the comment section below, just keep it PG-13 and under.
Feel free to rec the comments you want nominated (click "actions" then "rec").
A tally of wins is posted on the right side of the main page.
Authors are not eligible
At the end of the season, the person with the most wins will receive the Official Fish Stripes "Caption of the Ship Award!"

This weeks photo includes an emotional catcher.

The 02/04/12 winner is...marlinsfan315 (Apparently Wes misunderstood when Fredi said he wanted to see more bat from him).
Marlinsfan315 will receive 1 point.

Yankees tix gobbled up fast

Source: Fish Bytes by Clark Spencer

       Combine a rare visit by the New York Yankees with the allure of a new ballpark and it all adds up to this: the Marlins have sold out their April 1 exhibition game against the Bronx Bombers. It took under four hours on Saturday to sell out what tickets remained to the contest.

       As of 2:15 p.m., when the Marlins sent out a release, only 5,000 tickets still remained for the Marlins' April 2 exhibition against the Yanks at Marlins Park. The two games will be the first played between major league teams at the new facility.

       The Marlins limited capacity to the April 1 game to 25,000 seats. No more than 30,000 tickets were being sold to the April 2 contest.

       The Marlins will play their first regular-season game at their new park on April 4 against the Cardinals. Single-game tickets for the regular season, with the exception of Opening Night, will go on sale on March 3 at 10 a.m.

       Those wishing to buy tickets to the April 2 exhibition against the Yankees can do so by going to marlins.com.      

Buster Olney’s Eye-Opening Statement on the Miami Marlins

Source: Marlin Maniac by Will Stanifer

Buster Olney, a regular analyst for ESPN’s Baseball Tonight and well respected baseball figure has had a lot to say about the Miami Marlins this off-season. While many of his comments have been positive toward the organization, his latest might have been the most powerful yet. In response to a fan’s tweet about the Reality Show “The Franchise” coming to Miami, Olney made this statement: “The Marlins are either going to be a brilliant, visionary success, or a near-total disaster. Like going all-in on a poker hand.” This statement clearly speaks for itself, and while I want to disagree with him, I agree. Actually, I think Olney hit the nail on the head perfect. The Marlins have most likely ended their most active off-season yet acquiring all-star shortstop Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle, Heath Bell, and of course the unpredictable Carlos Zambrano.  Anytime an abundant amount of talent agrees to play for your team you should celebrate. Am I right or wrong? Only if the talent meshes with your teams chemistry, game-plan, and way of doing business. Lets break down this comment by the pros and cons:

… [visit site to read more]

Examining the 2012 Miami Marlins Projected Starting Pitching Rotation: A Fan’s Take (Yahoo! Contributor Network)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

With pitchers and catchers for the Miami Marlins expected to report to Jupiter, Florida, on February 22 it is as good as time as any to take a look at the Fish'sprojected starting pitching rotation. One of the priorities for the Marlins, coming off a 70-92 season in 2011,...

Will new name, faces, park lead Marlins in new direction? (Yahoo! Sports)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

The Miami Marlins will have plenty of optimism and lots of new faces this spring, but the main focus will be on its two veteran stars, right-handed starter Josh Johnson and shortstop Hanley Ramirez. Shortstop Jose Reyes, starting pitchers Mark Buehrle and Carlos Zambrano, and...

Fish Bites: Offseason Not Graded On Missed Opportunities

Source: FishStripes by scootertum

"I don't know about the word 'disappointment,'" Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest said after the Marlins failed to sign Cuban defector Yoenis Cespedes. "We wanted to add another quality player. We tried on Pujols. We tried on C.J. Wilson. We tried on Cespedes.

Yes, the Marlins tried to sign Cespedes, and yes, for just a second, half of the league thought he would be batting against pitchers within baseball's premier pitching-loaded division. However, early in the week, manager Ozzie Guillen said that Cespedes was "no sure thing", and that you "never know what is going to

Check Out the XFinity Comcast Ultimate Sports Social Media Job Contestants

Source: FishStripes by Michael Jong

The contestants for the XFinity Comcast Ultimate Sports Social Media Job contest have been decided, and it's up to the readers of the web to decide who will get a chance for a dream job as social media star for the next year! Check out the details:

Have you ever watched one of those TV shows where from thousands of hopefuls, one star is born? Well, Fish Stripes readers, here's your chance to play "starmaker" and help pick the new voice of sports in social media!

XFINITY is looking for the next renowned sports social media star through its Ultimate Sports Social Media Job contest. The winning candidate will serve as the new voice of XFINITY in the sports social media space and go behind-the-scenes at some of

Poll: Who Had The Better Offseason, Marlins Or Nats?

Source: MLB Trade Rumors by Mark Polishuk

The NL East was the most improved division in baseball this winter and it was almost entirely due to the efforts of just two teams.  The Marlins and Nationals both made big strides towards joining the Phillies and Braves in what could be a spirited pennant race this season.  (Sorry, Mets fans.)

With their new ballpark opening this April, the Marlins decided to take the opportunity to overhaul the entire franchise, debuting new uniforms, a new logo and even a new name, as the Florida Marlins made way for the Miami Marlins.  The first major move came when Ozzie Guillen was hired as the team's new manager and then the Fish took the free agent market by storm.  Miami signed Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and Heath Bell for a combined $191MM --- a stunning outlay for traditional small-payroll club.  The starting rotation was further bolstered by trades for Wade LeBlanc and the controversial Carlos Zambrano.  Between these moves and Josh Johnson and Hanley Ramirez looking to rebound from injury and a poor season, respectively, it's easy to see why some pundits have picked the Marlins to reach the playoffs this year.

The Nationals are also getting some love from the preseason analysts.  Washington's offseason was a bit more low-key to start with, as the club focused on bolstering their minor league depth, re-signing Chien-Ming Wang and adding Ryan Perry to the bullpen.  January, however, was much busier, as the Nats dealt four of their best prospects in order to acquire Gio Gonzalez from the A's and then promptly locked the left-hander up in a five-year extension.  GM Mike Rizzo then completed his search for starting pitching by signing Edwin Jackson to a one-year contract, thus pairing Jackson and Gonzalez along with Wang, Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann in what could be one of the strongest rotations in baseball.

The Marlins are clearly trying to win now.  The Nationals may still be looking to 2013 as their true "go for it" year, but with Strasburg recovered from Tommy John surgery and other impact players like Ryan Zimmerman and Michael Morse on board, it wouldn't be surprising to see Washington contend right now.  With all this in mind, which team's offseason do you think was the most impressive?

Who Had The Better Offseason?

Marlins Links: Gaby, Anibal, Reyes, Cespedes, Pudge

Source: MLB Trade Rumors by Mark Polishuk

Here's the latest from South Beach...

• Once Albert Pujols was off the market, the Marlins told Gaby Sanchez and his agent that rumors about Miami pursuing Prince Fielder were false and that the club wasn't looking for another first baseman, reports MLB.com's Joe Frisaro.  Sanchez said he wasn't offended that the Marlins were pursuing Pujols: "He's proven what he can do for 10 straight years. I still have so much time to go."
• Anibal Sanchez told reporters (including MLB.com's David Villavicencio) says the Marlins haven't approached him about a contract extension but he'd be open to signing such a deal.  MLBTR's Ben Nicholson-Smith recently examined Sanchez as an extension candidate.
• Sanchez also didn't mind his recent arbitration hearing with the Marlins, where he won his case and earned an $8MM salary for 2012.  "I think everybody thought they were going to say a lot of things that were bad about me. But I didn't think they said anything bad or that I didn't know. It's part of the business," Sanchez said.
• Jose Reyes understands that the Mets didn't have the finances to re-sign him, but he wished his former team would've at least made a some kind of an offer, reports Dan Martin of the New York Post.
• The Marlins offered Yoenis Cespedes a six-year, $36MM contract, reports Frisaro.  The team wanted a six-year deal since they felt Cespedes would need minor league seasoning and didn't want to pay him a large salary if he'd be spending time in the minors.  Cespedes instead agreed to sign with the A's for $36MM over four years.   
• With Cespedes gone, Frisaro says the Fish aren't expected to add any more players before Spring Training, though they could look for veteran starting pitching later in camp.  The Marlins aren't interested in Ivan Rodriguez for the backup catching job.

Miami Marlins: 7 Ramifications of Losing out on Yoenis Cespedes

Source: Bleacher Report

Earlier this week, Yoenis Cespedes signed a four-year deal with the Oakland Athletics, a move that surprised many teams, including the Miami Marlins, who were most aggressively pursuing the free agent. While many Marlins fans have yet to see Cespedes actually play, there's a strong feeling of being let down after being spurned by the potential star. 

The Marlins did succeed in bringing a number of new players this offseason to improve their roster heading into the 2012 season. But they have also come up short in their attempts to sign Albert Pujols, C.J. Wilson and now Cespedes.

Will the failure in luring in the Cuban star hurt the team? Here are seven ramifications the Marlins will face in losing out on Yoenis Cespedes.

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Hanley Ramirez and Jose Reyes Update: Hanley wants to be a Marlins for life?

Source: Marlin Maniac by Ehsan Kassim

The Miami Marlins held their annual charity golf tournament at the Miccosukee Golf and Country Club. Hanley Ramirez hardly played the role of someone that harbors hard feelings about giving up his position to the Miami Marlins big free agent acquisition,  Jose Reyes. Ramirez and Reyes were described as “inseperable.”

“I can’t wait,’ Reyes said about he and Ramirez playing together. “We’re going to be in spring training next week together on the same field so I’m very excited about that.”

… [visit site to read more]

Miami Marlins: Hanley Ramirez takes offense at article in Dominican newspaper

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Hanley Ramirez felt strongly enough about a negative write-up in the Dominican newspaper “Hoy” to fire off a response on Twitter.

Franklin Mirabal in what appears to be an opinion piece writes that Ramirez’s friendship with Jose Reyes inevitably will be damaged. Ramirez is moving to third base to accommodate Reyes, who the Marlins signed to a $106 million contract. Mirabal goes on to say the signing was a way for the Marlins front office to frustrate and cast down Ramirez.

In Mirabal’s estimation, it’s a show of disrespect and the Marlins ultimately will jettison Ramirez, who he says has not matured sufficiently to take on the face of the franchise role the Marlins were counting on when they gave him a $70 million deal. Mirabal criticizes Ramirez for not taking on a leadership role.

Ramirez’s response via Twitter (translated from Spanish): ”Folks, via this medium I want to let everyone know that what came out in the newspaper Hoy about me, the team and Guillen is a lie.” 

In a follow up tweet, Ramirez wrote: “And now what are you going to talk about if the whole world knows I’m going to play third base with the Marlins.”

And yet another: “Trying to soil my image with lies. Third base with the Marlins forever baby”

Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter dies at age 57

Source: Marlin Maniac by Ehsan Kassim

Some sad news to pass along. Yesterday at 4:10 PM ET, Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter visit site to read more]

Miami Marlins: Anibal Sanchez not concerned about multi-year deal

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Marlins starter Anibal Sanchez doesn’t sound all that disappointed about not landing a multi-year deal, and probably for good reason. Sure, the security would have been nice, but he’s fresh off beating the Marlins in arbitration and landing the largest ever award ($8 million) given to a starting pitcher.

“Everybody thought they were going to say a lot of things bad about me, but it was fine,” Sanchez said. “They didn’t say nothing like I don’t know. It’s part of the business. That’s the way I take it. Everybody is fine right now. I’m happy, not because I won but because I’m healthy and have another season before I’m a free agent.”

If the Marlins do in fact allow him to test the market, Sanchez should garner plenty of interest assuming he remains healthy and performs as consistently as he did in 2011. He’ll be 29 years old and likely would command at worst a three-year deal for between $10 million and $15 million a season. 

“I don’t know if the team is coming later with that or not,” Sanchez said. “I’m not thinking that right now. I’m just comfortable because I’m healthy and the new season is coming…It’s early. In life you have to go step by step. Right now spring training is coming. I have to be ready for spring training and work out for the season and we’ll see what’s going on.

Asked if he wanted to remain with the Marlins, Sanchez added: “One day you’re here, another day you’re on another team. I’m fine. If I’m in the big leagues I’m OK.”

Miami Marlins: Five Alternate Color Schemes That Would Have Been Preferred

Source: Bleacher Report

Still not feeling the new color scheme for the Miami Marlins?

Well there is something you can do get past the black, orange, yellow and sky blue color scheme the Marlins unveiled in early November. 

Shoe Gallery, located in Downtown Miami, has unveiled a series of alternate caps if you feel that you can't wear the Marlins' new digs with pride. 

Since the "Back in Black" cap really couldn't be an actual game hat because it has no colors, you can say would be the sixth choice among the five you are about to see. 

I've always thought the logo for the Marlins had great potential but Loria and company spilled the wrong coat of paint on it and gave it the controversy it still has and will have until they decide to change course in the future.

Trust me, they will, look how long the classic teal uniforms lasted and yet diehards still wanted teal, don't worry we have a design that could interest you here. I put the over/under at six years, but for now lets see what the Marlins missed out on. 

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Average raise slows for players in arbitration (AP)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

With Gio Gonzalez, Clayton Kershaw and Pablo Sandoval getting the steepest increases, the overall rise of salaries for players in arbitration slowed to its lowest level since 2007. The 142 players who filed for arbitration last month averaged a 112 percent increase, according to a study of agreements by The Associated Press.

Miami Marlins video: Jose Reyes talks about leaving the Mets

Source: SunSentinal.com by Juan C. Rodriguez

Here’s what the short-haired Jose Reyes had to say about leaving the Mets and joining the Marlins this offseason. Just about all the Marlins players showed up for Thursday’s Charity Golf Classic at the Miccosukee Resort and Golf Club.

Reyes later added he had no idea who purchased his dreadlocks, which he cut off and auctioned on eBay to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida. The winning bid was $10,200.

Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter dies at 57 (The Canadian Press)

Source: Yahoo! Sports

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter, the first player enshrined in Cooperstown wearing a Montreal Expos cap, died Thursday. He was 57.