The Miami Marlins, while not expected to contend for the National League playoffs this season, have seen significant improvements in their offensive performance. Over the past 30 days, the Marlins have scored a total of 122 runs, tying them with the Chicago Cubs for the ninth-highest scoring output in Major League Baseball. This resurgence is largely driven by standout contributions from outfielder Kyle Stowers, utility player Xavier Edwards, and infielder Otto Lopez.
Stowers has emerged as a remarkable talent, becoming the most-added player in ESPN standard leagues. Despite this, he remains available in 58% of leagues, following an explosive performance before the All-Star break where he hit three home runs against the Baltimore Orioles, driving in six runs. He continued his hot streak into the regular season’s resumption, hitting two home runs, including a dramatic walk-off shot against the Kansas City Royals. In just two games, Stowers recorded five home runs and 11 RBIs, showcasing his potential as a key offensive weapon for the Marlins.
Acquired from the Orioles along with Connor Norby for left-handed pitcher Trevor Rogers, Stowers had a rocky start last season, batting just .186 with two home runs in 50 games. This year, however, he has significantly improved, starting the season strong with a batting average of .323, four home runs, and 19 RBIs in March and April. His performance has only escalated, as he now boasts a remarkable .380 batting average with an .880 slugging percentage in July.
Supporting Stars Fuel Miami’s Offense
Alongside Stowers, both Lopez and Edwards have played crucial roles in the team’s offensive resurgence. Lopez, often considered an unconventional choice for the No. 3 hitter due to his power limitations, has nonetheless shone with seven home runs and an impressive 34 RBIs since June. This places him tied for seventh in the league for RBIs during that period. His ability to reach double digits in both home runs and stolen bases this season, coupled with a low strikeout rate, makes him an appealing option for fantasy league managers.
Edwards, serving as the team’s leadoff hitter, has also made his mark, batting .319 since June, ranking sixth in the league during that timeframe. He has contributed 26 runs and five stolen bases, further establishing himself as a reliable contact hitter. Both Lopez and Edwards are among the top 25 players in terms of the lowest strikeout rates this season, complementing Stowers’ power-hitting style.
The Marlins’ most-rostered player in ESPN standard leagues is catcher/first baseman/dh Agustin Ramirez, currently at 51.3%. Collectively, the Marlins’ hitters are beginning to gain the recognition they deserve as the team continues to improve its offensive capabilities.
Emerging Players Worth Noting
In addition to the Marlins’ key players, several others around the league are gaining attention and could be valuable additions to fantasy teams.
Zach Neto, a shortstop for the Los Angeles Angels, has become available in 67.4% of leagues. After recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, Neto is expected to make an impact. He hit 23 home runs and stole 30 bases last season, and while he has faced challenges this year, he remains a player to watch.
Luke Keaschall, a second baseman for the Minnesota Twins, is another player to keep an eye on. Currently available in a staggering 96.8% of leagues, he is recovering from a fractured forearm but has shown promise in Triple-A, with a .368 batting average in early April.
Additionally, Sean Manaea of the New York Mets recently returned from an oblique injury and has shown strong performance potential in his first start since his return, allowing only one hit and striking out six batters.
As the season progresses, the Miami Marlins and other emerging talents across Major League Baseball are proving that there is still plenty of action left to unfold. With players like Stowers, Lopez, and Edwards leading the charge, the Marlins may find themselves becoming a more formidable offensive force.
