By Jonathan Andersen @5ReasonsSports At this point in the season, the Fish are floundering, with no rescue in sight. It feels as though whenever there’s a positive in Miami, its followed by a series of negatives. One step forward comes with two steps back. At this current point, even with a positive run differential, the Marlins are struggling with a 18-24 record, after being swept in a two-game set at Tampa Bay. With 13 one-run losses, the Marlins need to…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — The answer of who should play center field for the Miami Marlins was in front of us all along. Still, many missed it. Credit to the Marlins, for seeing it. Credit to general manager Kim Ng, and the front office for sticking to their conviction when others doubted. Jesus Sanchez is the Marlins center fielder. Let’s end the conversation that he’s not. Let’s put to rest trade speculation that the organization needs a true…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd WEST PALM BEACH — Dee Strange-Gordon is back in the big leagues. Neither his passion for the game, nor his friendly smile had ever left. A non-roster invitee with the Washington Nationals, Gordon on Thursday officially made the team. The speedster, now 33, is on a big league roster for the first time since 2020. Washington opens against the New York Mets today. A former All-Star, Gold Glove winner, National League batting champion with the Miami…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd These are the types of trades that make perfect sense for the Miami Marlins. On Sunday night, they made a shrewd deal that netted them two proven big league relievers. Miami acquired right-hander Cole Sulser and lefty Tanner Scott from the Baltimore Orioles for a Competitive Balance Round B pick in 2022, reliever Antonio Velez and outfielder Kevin Guerrero, plus a player to be named later. ManOn2nd confirmed the trade, which the Marlins made official on…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd WEST PALM BEACH — What we saw on Monday is a reminder of why a few years ago there was so much hype surrounding Edward Cabrera. Edward Cabrera, remember him? Sometimes, it’s easy to be distracted at Miami Marlins’ camp because there is an abundance of young pitchers who command attention. Last week, Max Meyer was making headlines. And the week before it was Eury Perez. We can also talk about Dax Fulton if you want,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Let’s clear the air on this. These are not the Miami Marlins of old. The transformation the organization is undergoing is refreshing and promising. Admittedly, we didn’t know what to expect after the startling announcement that Derek Jeter was parting ways with the club shortly before Spring Training started. From what we’ve gathered since camp opened is, it’s basically business as usual. General manager Kim Ng is running the baseball operations, and from…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Jorge Soler gives the Miami Marlins the power bat they prioritized. But the arrival of the 30-year-old outfielder doesnt necessary settle who will play center. The Marlins are giving Jesus Sanchez a chance to play center, and right fielder Avisail Garcia is another option. Bryan Del La Cruz and utility player Jon Berti are defensive options. Berti, a natural infielder, got the start in center field on Wednesday against the Washington Nationals at…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — It took about a week for the Marlins to sign slugger Jorge Soler. The three-year, $36 million deal became official on Tuesday, as the organization introduced the 30-year-old to the media at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Adding Soler gives the Marlins another middle of the lineup threat, and a likely fan favorite. Cuban-born, Soler and his family already have been making Miami home. On the field, he is playoff tested. We saw that…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The Miami Marlins blanked the New York Mets, 3-0, on Monday. In the win, newcomer Avisail Garcia drove in a run, as did Isan Diaz and Erik Gonzalez. But that wasnt the big story of the afternoon at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. The talk of the game was the relief work by prospect Max Meyer. The right-hander didn’t allow a walk or a hit, while striking out five in five shutout innings. The third overall pick…
Don Mattingly notes that his playing career may not have been entirely with the Yankees if he played in the age of analytics and today’s free agency By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Imagine Donnie Baseball playing for a team other than the New York Yankees? No way, right? Don Mattingly is an all-time Yankees great. One of the best players of his generation, Mattingly spent his entire 14-year career with the Bronx Bombers. He was a six-time All-Star,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Right guy for the right price is pretty much how the Marlins view signing slugger Jorge Soler. The 30-year-old outfielder reached agreement on a three-year, $36 million contract on Saturday. The contract includes opt outs after the first and second year. With regards to the big picture, the Marlins will worry about 2023 and 2024 when the time comes. Their focus is on the here and now. All that matters is 2022, which…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER — The Marlins are infusing some more power to their offense. Jorge Soler has agreed to a three-year, $36 million contract with Miami. The deal includes opt outs after the first and second seasons, per sources. The contract, which will be finalized in the new few days gives the Marlins the impactful bat they’ve been looking for since the lockout ended. Soler, 30, is a Cuban native who has a home in Miami. He promises…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER — The Marlins spent four years building up their farm system. Now, with an expectation to compete in a loaded N.L. East, the Marlins find themselves exploring numerous trade possibilities to address center field. General manager Kim Ng said ideally the club would like a regular center fielder. There aren’t many free agents that fit the profile, although there also is a desire to add a power hitting outfielder. With Nick Castellanos agreeing to a…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd WEST PALM BEACH — All options are on the table, but the Marlins absolute preference is to acquire a true center fielder. General manager Kim Ng made that clear while addressing the Marlins’ media on Friday night. “I think, ideally, we want a center fielder who is an offensive threat,” Ng said between innings of the Marlins’ Grapefruit League game with the Washington Nationals at The Ballpark of The Palm Beaches. “That would be our primary…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Do something! That’s the overwhelming sentiment among frustrated Miami Marlins’ fans, eager for the club to make a major move. Any move. They’re voicing themselves loudly on social media, and their patience is running thin. And we’re not even a full week into Spring Training. As top-tier free agents like Freddie Freeman and Kris Bryant are signing megadeals elsewhere, the Marlins still haven’t made their final big splash before Opening Day. Memo to…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Splitting time at first base and DH worked out just fine in 2020, so the Miami Marlins plan on using that same combination again this season. Garrett Cooper and Jesus Aguilar are expected to job share the two spots in 2022, which means two of Miami’s top power hitters can regularly be in the lineup at the same time. The positional breakdown could be close to even. So whoever is playing first base,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Two days into Spring Training, and the Miami Marlins are saying and doing all the right things. Chairman and principal owner Bruce Sherman on Monday spoke about spending money in free agency, and general manager Kim Ng is tasked with addressing the primary needs: foremost, adding another impact hitter. Manager Don Mattingly on Tuesday covered plenty of ground in his morning media session, shedding light on how he intends to use his roster….
The Marlins are focused on adding at least one more impactful hitter as Spring Training opens on Monday in Jupiter, Fla. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — The Miami Marlins have unfinished business to tend to as Spring Training is set to start on Monday morning at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Players will take the field in the morning, after Chairman and Principal Owner Bruce Sherman, general manager Kim Ng and manager Don Mattingly each address the media. The…
The Miami Marlins are exploring trades and free agent possibilities as camp is set to open. MO2 lists a couple of targets By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Welcome to MLB’s version of March Madness. After a maddening 99-day MLB lockout, the baseball world is rejoicing in the fact a new collective bargaining agreement has been reached. With the doors now open, 40-man roster players are returning to spring training complexes. Workouts will officially begin in a day or…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — A chance to be special. You hear that phrase said often about prospects who possess the talent to become stars. In a deep Miami Marlins farm system, there are several players who have the potential to become real impact Major Leaguers or All-Stars. Two of their better prospects are under the age 20: shortstop Kahlil Watson and right-hander Eury Perez. Both are 18, and interestingly, were born a day apart. Perez, from Santiago,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — A fire burns inside Miami Marlins’ pitching prospect Max Meyer whenever he steps on the mound. Actually, his competitive drive is present in whatever athletic endeavor Meyer is participating. Growing up in Minnesota, Meyer was never afraid to mixed it up on the ice, while playing hockey. On the mound, his mission is to dominate. ‘I’m a little too competitive, I feel like,” Meyer said on Tuesday afternoon. “If it’s a bad day,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd What the Miami Marlins are building internationally is worth taking notice. In recent years the organization has taken a giant step forward when it comes to signing high-end international talent. This is a far cry from much of the franchise’s past, when the Marlins didn’t view the international market as a high priority. Under current ownership, that has changed in a big way. Last June, the Marlins broke ground on their Dominican Republic Player Development Complex,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd ManOn2nd ushered in the New Year with an exclusive podcast interview with Miami Marlins prospect Zach McCambley. The 22-year-old right-hander is ranked as Miami’s No. 16 prospect, per MLB Pipeline. McCambley gave us an update on his off-season preparation, as well as provided an insight into the development of his curveball. Miami selected McCambley out of Coastal Carolina in the third round in the 2020 MLB Draft, and in 2021, the right-hander advanced from High A…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The Marlins are looking to add run producers, and outfielder Michael Conforto is still on the free agent market. But are the two sides a fit for each other? The answer is yes, but the catch is for what price. That’s the take of Tim Healey, the New York Mets’ beat reporter for Newsday. Healey was a recent guest on the ManOn2nd podcast, which is available on the Five Reasons Sports YouTube channel as well as…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd First and foremost, Miami Marlins’ management made a commitment to contending in 2022. That’s welcome news to a fanbase that has endured years of building for a better tomorrow. Secondly, the organization backed their claim by finalizing several significant deals prior to the Dec. 1 lockout. Signing Sandy Alcantara, their ace, to a five-year, $56 million contract extension is a cornerstone move, and much deserved to the 26-year-old right-hander. It was a fitting and significant first…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd When the D-Train talks, he speaks from authority. So when Dontrelle Willis makes a bold claim, you pay attention. As special guest on the most recent ManOn2nd podcast, Willis was asked to assess the current Miami Marlins rotation. The one-time National League Rookie of the Year, and two-time All-Star, gushed about the talent pitching coach Mel Stottlemeyer Jr., is working with. “They could be the best staff the Marlins have ever had, and that’s saying a…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd At last, some clarity to the Miami Marlins’ offseason plans. The GM Meetings concluded on Thursday at Carlsbad, Calif., and we’ve seen some signs as to how the Marlins are mapping out their offseason. What we’ve learned this week is the Marlins intend to pursue free agent hitters (regardless of position), they aren’t in the market for a big-ticket shortstop (not surprising with Miguel Rojas signed for a couple of more years), and they’ve been linked…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Rumors and reports have been running rampant at the General Managers Meetings this week in Carlsbad, Calif. The Miami Marlins, who are on record saying they intend to pursue impactful hitters, are already testing the free agent and trade waters. According to reports, the Marlins have had preliminary discussions with the representatives of outfielders Nick Castellanos and Avisail Garcia. They’re also exploring trade possibilities with the Toronto Blue Jays regarding catchers. Castellanos, a South Florida native,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MLB’s free agency tends to be a bit more complicated than simply signing players. Sunday was the deadline for all clubs to either extend or not qualifying offers to their own free agents. This impacts several potential targets for clubs like the Miami Marlins. For example, qualifying offers were made by the Reds to Nick Castellanos, the Mets to Michael Conforto and the Dodgers to Chris Taylor. These are three players who fit what the Marlins…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — You can tell a lot about a ball player based on his practice habits. That’s certainly the case with Boston Red Sox prospect, Triston Casas. The 21-year-old first baseman is all business any time he steps on the field. Yes, and it begins with practice. Casas is laser focused during pregame stretching, infield drills and in batting practice. Listed at 6-foot-4, 252-pounds, Casas is a left-handed hitting first baseball with plenty of power….
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MESA, Ariz. — A somewhat overshadowed prospect for the Miami Marlins is outfielder Kameron Misner. The 35th overall pick as a Competitive Balance Round A pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, Misner opened the 2021 season at High A Beloit and late in the season made the jump to Double-A Pensacola. He combined to slash .253 with a .355 OBP with 12 homers and 59 RBIs. He added 26 stolen bases. A left-handed hitter with power…
Marlins prospect JJ Bleday on Monday had three hits, including a home run, as he continues to show promising signs at the Arizona Fall League By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd SURPRISE, ARIZ. — It’s only eight games, but still there are plenty of encouraging signs for JJ Bleday at the Arizona Fall League. The Miami Marlins outfield prospect is off to a hot start for the Mesa Solar Sox. Monday afternoon was another big day at the plate for the left-handed…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The MLB postseason has been a nightly showcase for several former Miami Marlins, who are stepping up on baseball’s biggest stage. Adam Duvall is making his mark for the Atlanta Braves, coming up with big homers and big hits in big moments. Over in the American League, Enrique Hernandez (who had a short tenure in Miami in 2014), has been Mr. October for the Boston Red Sox. Earlier in the playoffs, we saw Giancarlo Stanton showcase…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd A premiere prep showcase event recently took place in South Florida, and ManOn2nd was on hand to cover the action. The WWBA World Championship Perfect Game tournament featured many of the top 18-under players in the country. The five-day event was held at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Fla. Termarr Johnson and Druw Jones, son of former MLB great Andruw Jones, were two of the most touted players at the showcase. Both could be taken…
WWBA World Championship Perfect Game event in Jupiter, Fla., has lured top prep talent to South Florida for marquee showcase event By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Hundreds of the top prep baseball players from around the country converged on Jupiter, Fla., this past weekend to showcase their talents at one of the marquee Perfect Game events of the year. The annual WWBA World Championship was hosted at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, the Spring Training home and Minor League…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — It’s a wrap! A disappointing 2021 season for the Miami Marlins ended on a high note Sunday with a 5-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies at loanDepot park. After taking the final two games with the Phillies, the Marlins closed out an otherwise frustrating season with a 67-95 record, and fourth place finish in a lackluster National League East, which ended up being the worst division in the Majors. Expectations were much higher for…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Talent wins. Make no mistake about that. In no way is this article looking to dismiss this basic fact. We all know that the teams moving on to the postseason in October are loaded with talent. The 2021 season was back to 162 games, not the pandemic-shortened 60-game sprint of ’20. For those who punched their playoff ticket, there was no “super system” or “secret sauce” blended together that bakes into a winner over the long…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Juan Pierre, one of the most popular all-time Marlins, was the special guest on the latest ManOn2nd podcast. Pierre was the center fielder and catalyst of the 2003 Marlins World Series championship team. In his playing days, Pierre was a hard-working left-handed hitter, known for his game-changing speed and unmatched work ethic. He enjoyed two stints with the Marlins — 2003-05, 2013. In his 14-year big league career, Pierre accumulated 2,217 hits and 614 stolen bases….
The latest ManOn2nd podcast addresses the pressing issues for the Miami Marlins, as well as updates on the Tampa Bay Rays, Giancarlo Stanton’s quest for 30 HRs and more By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Bryan De La Cruz and Jesus Sanchez have stepped up to provide power and excitement for a Miami Marlins team winding down a frustrating season. Right-hander Sandy Alcantara keeps getting better, but what does his future hold in Miami? Should the Marlins sign Sandy in the offseason,…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The Miami Marlins head into Washington on Monday to face the Nationals in the first of three games at Nationals Park. Miami holds a one-game lead over the Nats for fourth place in the N.L. East. In terms of divisional standings, last-place is on the line for Miami with 19 games remaining. That’s what is at stake now, as well as MLB Draft positioning in 2022. When it comes to the bigger picture, which for a…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd First things first. ManOn2nd congratulates Derek Jeter on officially being inducted into the Hall of Fame. The legendary New York Yankees shortstop and current chief executive officer of the Miami Marlins, Jeter was elected to the Hall of Fame Class of 2020. But due to the pandemic, the Hall of Fame ceremony was postponed last year, and is taking place on Sept. 8. Hats off to “The Captain.” As for Jeter’s current team, the Miami Marlins,…
MO2 spent last weekend in Arizona, and caught up with a couple of former first-round picks with state of Florida ties: D-backs’ outfielder Pavin Smith and Mariners’ right-hander Logan Gilbert By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd PHOENIX — A recent visit to Arizona provided ManOn2nd the opportunity to catch up with a couple of rookies who have tremendous upsides: Pavin Smith and Logan Gilbert. Smith, 25, is a first base/outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks, while Gilbert, 24, is a right-hander for the…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI - There was a vocal gathering of Cincinnati Reds’ fans seated behind the first base dugout this past weekend at loanDepot park. Many of those clad in Reds’ gear were family and friends of two South Florida natives who are core players for Cincinnati. Outfielder Nick Castellanos is one of the most productive hitters in the National League, and his name will likely be on several MVP ballots. (Each BBWAA member lists 10 names). And…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd When I launched Man On Second Baseball in February, I didn’t exactly know where the brainstorm was headed. I knew I wanted to stay active in baseball, yet provide something unique and different. I also knew I wanted to start something on my own. As for what that was, I wanted to bring a conversational tone to my coverage, and get away from the daily grind of the big leagues. From 2002-2020, that’s all I knew…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — It’s the end of August, which basically is the September call-up period for Minor League prospects. All 30 MLB organizations have already begun promoting prospects deemed ready for the next level. The Miami Marlins have had their share, recently advancing pitchers Eury Perez and Dax Fulton from low A ball to High A. Infielder Jose Salas has been elevated from the Florida Complex League to the low-A Jupiter Hammerheads. MO2 spent a couple…
Miguel Cabrera, one of the best hitters of his generation, is now a member of MLB’s 500 HR Club. The future Hall of Famer with the Detroit Tigers started his career with the then Florida Marlins By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Of course, Miguel Cabrera made history by hitting the ball the other way. That fact alone is a story within a story when chronically Cabrera’s remarkable career. One of the greatest right-handed hitters of all-time, Cabrera further cemented his future…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The reemergence of Adam Conley in the big leagues is an interesting story. The 31-year-old left-hander, formerly with the Miami Marlins, is once again in the big leagues. This time with the first-place Tampa Bay Rays, who continue to find value in other club’s castoffs. Courtesy of a tweet I made yesterday, reminding critics not to give up too quickly on players, we see just how much emotion the mere mention of Conley is to Marlins’…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Watching the improved play of Lewis Brinson lately reminds me of Jack McKeon’s amusing rendition of “Mr. Opportunity.” Those who covered McKeon daily know the story all too well. We’ve heard it countless times, and the way McKeon delivered it never got old. During his days managing the Oakland A’s in the 1970s, McKeon worked for Charlie Finley. A hands on owner, Finley once addressed his team on the importance of taking advantage of an opportunity….
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Major League Baseball couldn’t have scripted Thursday night any better. Tim Anderson provided the decisive Hollywood moment with a two-run, walkoff homer in the ninth inning that lifted the Chicago White Sox to a 9-8 victory over the New York Yankees in the first Field of Dreams Game. Anderson’s blast off Zack Britton faded into the night and landed somewhere in the cornfields. What a fitting ending to a night that connected baseball’s past to its…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd You can never have too much pitching, right? Well, the same can be said of quality shortstops. The cost to sign and/or acquire elite shortstops is steep. Just look at the 2021 MLB salaries of Francisco Lindor ($22.3 million), Xander Bogaerts ($20 million) and Trevor Story ($18.5 million). On the free agent market, Story, Corey Seager and Trea Turner project to join the growing list of $20-plus million a year shortstops. The Marlins feel they have…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Jorge Alfaro is now playing outfield. To many, the Miami Marlins decision to find a new position for their Opening Day catcher appeared to come out of left field. When MO2 heard the news Alfaro was in left field on Tuesday, I immediately thought of a conversation I had in Spring Training with one of my long-time industry friends. This discussion took place in March, a few weeks before the season started. I asked my friend…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Newly-acquired Miami Marlins left-hander Jesus Luzardo talked about coming home after picking up a 6-3 win over the New York Mets on Monday at loanDepot park. It’s every kid’s dream to play for their hometown team, and Luzardo is the latest South Florida-raised player to wear the uniform of his favorite team growing up. Words alone didn’t sum up what pitching at home means to Luzardo, the 23-year-old southpaw flaunted it on his glove. Stitched on…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Now that it is official, you can call it a “Done Steal!” The Miami Marlins on Sunday officially signed their first-round pick, shortstop Kahlil Watson, taken 16th overall in the July MLB Draft. Regarded as the “steal of the draft,” Watson didn’t come at a discounted rate. The 18-year-old signed for $4,540,790, according to MLB Pipeline’s Jim Callis. That’s well over the slot value of the pick, $3,745,500. Announcing Watson puts the finishing touches on, by…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The looming question about what’s next for Starling Marte has been answered. A couple of days before the Trade Deadline, the Miami Marlins on Wednesday announced they’ve dealt Marte to the Oakland A’s for left-hander Jesus Luzardo, a South Florida native who has plenty of promise as well as some question marks. Additionally, the Marlins are paying off the remainder of Marte’s salary for the 2021 season, which is more than $4 million. This is an…
MO2 has latest on Miami Marlins low-A affiliate the Jupiter Hammerheads. Eury Perez and Evan Fitterer each stand out in their latest outings By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — ManOn2nd picked a good weekend to check out the Jupiter Hammerheads. After Friday’s game was postponed due to threatening weather, a doubleheader was played on Saturday night with the Palm Beach Cardinals at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. The two Hammerheads starters were worth the price of admission. Evan Fitterer and…
Former professional scout, Bob Johnson, who has nearly 40 years of experience, offers his insights exclusively to Man On Second Baseball By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd With the MLB Trade Deadline quickly approaching, it’s a perfect time for MO2 to check in with our resident scout, Bob Johnson, to get his insights into the process teams use in making trades. This is a time of year where scouts are on the go, getting some final looks at potential trade targets, prior…
So much action in so few days. The MLB Draft and All-Star Game overlapped this years. Man On Second Baseball breaks down some of the highlights as it relates to the Marlins By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Weeks before the 2014 MLB Draft, former Marlins manager and special advisor Jack McKeon was at the ballpark taking in a Marlins game. I bumped into Jack, and our conversation eventually turned to the upcoming draft. The Marlins picked second overall that year, and…
Opportunity presented itself and the Marlins seized it by selecting Kahlil Watson with the 16th overall pick in the MLB Draft. By Joe Frisaro ManOn2nd MLB Draft insiders are calling it a “steal.” For the Marlins, it was being at the right place at the right time. With the 16th overall pick in the MLB Draft on Monday night, the Marlins selected shortstop Kahlil Watson from Wake Forest (N.C.) High School. The pick immediately was the buzz of the Draft….
Stan Meek, who ran the 2011 Marlins’ MLB Draft, takes us back to when the Marlins picked the late Jose Fernandez in the first round By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd “A generational player.” You don’t hear the phrase too often, because it’s attributed only to the “best of the best.” Since I began covering the Marlins in 2002, from the numerous insiders and evaluators I’ve spoken with, just three players were considered potential “generational” talents before they appeared in their first…
The 2010 Marlins MLB Draft was special because Miami landed Christian Yelich and J.T. Realmuto. In between, they almost added slick-fielding shortstop Andrelton Simmons By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The 2010 MLB Draft already ranks among the best in Miami Marlins’ history. Two picks alone make that an elite Draft Class. With the 23rd overall pick, the Marlins selected Christian Yelich and J.T. Realmuto was taken in Round Three. When you grab an MVP outfielder and perennial All-Star catcher, you don’t…
Marlins in initial conversations with Starling Marte about an extension, while also being open to make trades, depending on what makes sense. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The Marlins are getting a head start on the trade market. On Tuesday, Miami dealt outfielder Corey Dickerson and reliever Adam Cimber, along with cash considerations to the Toronto Blue Jays for infielder Joe Panik and Minor League reliever Andrew McInvale, who will join Double-A Pensacola. As part of the deal, Toronto is picking…
The Miami Marlins pick 16th overall in the MLB Draft, and South Florida has several players who expect to go in the early rounds. Marlins director of amateur scouting DJ Svihlik offers his thoughts on Andrew Painter and Adrian Del Castillo By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Even in a “down year,” the state of Florida still has some top amateur baseball players who project to be taken in the early rounds of the MLB Draft. Calvary Christian Academy right-hander Andrew Painter…
Marlins rookie infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. is blessed with plenty of personality and talent on a baseball field. Included in his skillset is elite bat speed, which helps make him even more of a power threat By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — Jazz Chisholm Jr. grew up wanting to be like Ken Griffey Jr. As a kid, Chisholm watched “The Kid” play as much as possible, admiring his talents, and copying the Hall of Famer’s swing. “That was my guy,”…
Florida-native Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays, the son of former All-Star Dante Bichette, is among the wave of Sunshine State players making a big impact in the big leagues. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — “Bo Flow” is written on the back of Bo Bichette’s warmup t-shirt. A marketing firm should jump all over the phrase, and use it to help promote the brand of one of baseball’s rising, young stars. Bichette, who played his prep ball at…
The Marlins have some promising prospects. Some are off to fast starts and others to slow starts. MO2 gives the latest on several key players in Miami’s farm system. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Man On Second Baseball is back from vacation, and is hitting the ground running on what were hearing and seeing on the prospect front. Although we were out of town for a week, MO2 didn’t completely disconnect from the action on the field. We even caught a…
Baseball icon Jack McKeon in an exclusive interview with Man On Second Baseball reminds that pitchers who threw more decades ago suffered fewer arm injuries than pitchers of today By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Pitchers today are bigger, stronger, throw harder and are in better physical condition than ever before. So why then are so many of them breaking down? Keeping a rotation intact has been a troubling MLB-wide issue. Right here in South Florida, the Miami Marlins, through their first…
With Elieser Hernandez out with a quad strain, the Marlins again are looking to solidify their rotation. Could their best option be at Double-A Pensacola? By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Just when the Miami Marlins felt they had their five-man rotation lined up, they received another untimely setback. Elieser Hernandez suffered a right quad strain while running the bases in Thursday’s 5-3 loss at the Pittsburgh Pirates. The unfortunate setback came on the day Miami reinstated Hernandez from the injured list,…
Miami Marlins prospect Griffin Conine, the son of Mr. Marlin himself, Jeff Conine, now has seven home runs for High A Beloit By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The son of Mr. Marlin is mashing in the Minor Leagues. Griffin Conine connected on home run No. 7 on Tuesday for the Beloit Snappers. Conine’s latest power display came in the first inning, and the Snappers breezed to a 7-0 victory over the Quad Cities River Bandits. The Snappers are the Miami Marlins’…
The Miami Marlins enter June still within striking distance in the National League East, but the club is dealing with numerous injuries and next few weeks will determine what’s next By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Two months into the season, and the Miami Marlins find themselves in an interesting spot. In the standings, the team has done its part to tread water while coping with numerous injuries. Even at four games under .500, they remain in realistic striking distance of the…
The Miami Marlins pitching depth is deep, and its at all levels. In low Class A, Jupiter Hammerheads right-hander Eury Perez is a rising prospect with top of the rotation potential By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Man On Second Baseball is back after taking a two-week vacation. We were on the road, visiting family up in North Carolina, where MO2 did attend some Minor League games. On our way back to South Florida, MO2 stopped by Roger Dean…
The anticipated MLB debut of Seattle Mariners prospect Logan Gilbert has arrived. The rookie right-hander from Winter Park, Fla., has the makings of a future star By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd From the school that produced Corey Kluber and Jacob deGrom, another former Stetson University sensation is now entering the big leagues. Seattle Mariners right-hander Logan Gilbert is making his MLB debut on Thursday night against the Cleveland Indians. If you’re not familiar with Gilbert, you’re about to be, because MO2…
MO2 contributor Bob Johnson, a former big league scout for four decades, talks key MLB “benchmark dates,” and the pitch he recommended to get Derek Jeter out, and more. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Six weeks into the MLB schedule, and we are still hearing managers, players and team executives talking about: “It’s still early.” Of course, it is. The Miami Marlins enter Wednesday having played 35 games, and they’re facing the Arizona Diamondbacks, who have played 36 before the first…
MO2 revisits the scouting process that went into locating, drafting and signing Holloway as a late-round pick in the 2014 MLB Draft By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The first MLB start was a bit rocky for Miami Marlins right-hander Jordan Holloway on Monday night in a 5-2 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks. In 3 2/3 innings, the 24-year-old gave up four runs (three earned), and his outing ended after 68 pitches. Transitioning from the bullpen to a spot starter, Holloway was…
Lewin Diaz is ready for the big leagues, Jesus Sanchez is scorching hot, and Monte Harrison is flashing his overall skillset. MO2 breaks down the Marlins Triple-A affiliate By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Almost a week into the Minor League season, and already several highly regarded Miami Marlins prospects are tearing it up at Triple-A Jacksonville. Monte Harrison, Jesus Sanchez and Lewin Diaz are the Big Three in the lineup right now, with each showing why the Marlins should show plenty…
The Minor League season has begun, and the Marlins system is off to a fast start. Max Meyer lives up to expectations, and other prospects that caught Man On Second Baseball’s attention By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — Minor League season is underway, and many Miami Marlins’ prospects wasted little time making strong first impressions. MO2, as part of its mission to cover “all things Florida baseball,” will be providing extensive coverage of the Minor Leagues. Today, we stick with…
Marlins third baseman Brian Anderson was reinstated from the IL on Monday and connected on a three-run homer in his first at-bat By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — Welcome back, Brian Anderson! The Miami Marlins third baseman didn’t waste any time making an impact felt in his first game off the injured list. In the first inning on Monday, Anderson uncorked a three-run, opposite-field home run off Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Riley Smith. The quick-strike by Anderson was the first of…
The Marlins went 3-7 over their taxing, three-city, 10-game road trip. ManOn2nd offers its observations and what to watch for, and possible solutions with homestand set to begin on Tuesday By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd With their grueling, three-city, 10-game road trip in the books, its time to unpack what went on during the Miami Marlins’ 3-7 swing away from home. The Marlins had put themselves in a decent spot after taking two or three at Milwaukee last week, but things…
The latest MO2 Sunshine State spotlight performer. We break down Rays’ rookie Shane McClanahan, the hard-throwing lefty from the University of South Florida who was the 31st overall pick in the 2018 Draft By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Electric. Overpowering. Filthy. Nasty. Call it what you wish. Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash summed it up in one word: “Outstanding.” “I thought he was outstanding,” Cash said on Thursday in his postgame Zoom call. The performance of Rays rookie left-hander Shane…
Stan Meek, the former Miami Marlins vice president of scouting, takes us through how the club scouted left-hander Trevor Rogers By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd “Tall pitchers take a long time. Tall left-handers take forever.” Long-time MLB executive Pat Gillick, one of the best evaluators ever in the business, is credited with making the above statement about pitchers who stretch the tape measure. When it comes to developing pitching, especially tall, left-handers, Gillick reminds that clubs must show patience. Former Marlins…
The numbers and objective analysis all had Monday night projected as a rough one for the Marlins. Guess what? It didn’t turn out that way, and MO2 explains why By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd So you think youve got baseball all figured out, right? Guess again. Those who tuned in to Bally Sports Florida on Monday night witnessed why you don’t get ahead of yourself on any Major League Baseball night. The Miami Marlins at the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday came…
The latest prep prospect watch from Man On Second Baseball contributor Andre Fernandez, who is highlighting top high school talent in South Florida By Andre Fernandez @FernandezAndreC PARKLAND, Fla. — Man On Second Baseball continues to track some of the top high school prospects in South Florida. With the high school postseason set to begin this week, we checked in on a few more last week in a matchup of two nationally-ranked teams – Stoneman Douglas (ranked fourth by MaxPreps)…
The Miami Marlins are struggling, having lost two straight at San Francisco while collecting just five hits in those games. What are their options to get on track? MO2 takes a look. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd What now? The Miami Marlins are in a bit of a quandary. They’ve lost the first two of their four-game series at chilly San Francisco. The temperatures are cold. It’s windy, and players like Jazz Chisholm Jr. are out there wearing hoodies under their…
With three regulars on the injured list, the Marlins depth is getting tested. Time for players to step up and pick up the slack. Here’s who to keep an eye on. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd A year ago, the Marlins overcame injury adversity and reached the postseason. The club now is dealing with some ailments that’s testing the organization’s depth. The Marlins are in the midst of a three-city, 10-game road trip with three Opening Day starting position players on…
Injuries to catcher Jorge Alfaro and center fielder Starling Marte have the Marlins scrambling to round out their active roster. Here’s a look at how the moves are connected, and players to focus on. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The wear and tear of the season is now impacting the Marlins. After a relatively healthy Spring Training, Miami has been hit by some significant injuries. Center fielder Starling Marte (non-displaced left rib fracture) and catcher Jorge Alfaro (left hamstring) have gone…
MO2 contributor, Bob Johnson, a former big league school for four decades, calls the Marlins a fun, exciting team. He’s high on Jazz Chisholm Jr., and says Brian Anderson will be fine By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Something is brewing around the Miami Marlins. There’s positive momentum building as this enticing team continues to band together, no matter what. The energy, passion and “buy in” by the players to the coaching staff and the organizational philosophy is winning over fans locally….
Editor’s Note: Joe Capozzi, a veteran baseball writer formerly with the Palm Beach Post, is a contributor to @ManOn2nd. You can follow Joe’s work at his own site: ByJoeCapozzi.com By Joe Capozzi Special to @ManOn2nd THE GREAT BABE RUTH, hands on waist, his commanding physique dwarfing three companions, gazes out from a faded black-and-white photograph on a wall at the Lake Worth Beach Golf Club. Mounted behind racks of golf jerseys, shoes and sun hats, the old photo has been…
By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — Marlins center fielder Starling Marte has been a constant all season, and the club’s best overall position player. Now, Miami must cope being without its best player, at least for a little while. On Monday, the team announced that an MRI revealed Marte has a non-displaced fracture in his 12th rib on the left side. The club added the 32-year-old will “refrain from activity for 5-7 days before being re-evaluated.” The Marlins are off…
Starling Marte remains the constant in the Marlins’ lineup, and the center fielder slugged a three-run homer in the eighth inning that has Miami fans ready to party. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd “Partay Time,” for the Marlins. Starling Marte gave the Marlins plenty of reasons to celebrate on Friday night, making his typical standout plays in center field. But it was “Marte Partay Time” for the Marlins in the eighth inning. The veteran outfielder delivered the decisive blow, his no-doubt,…
MO2 unveils our latest Sunshine State spotlight. Among the headliners are Anthony DeSclafani of the Giants, who faces the Marlins on Friday, and White Sox catcher Zack Collins, who was behind the plate for Carlos Rodon’s no-hitter. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Man On Second Baseball constantly scans the MLB landscape, searching for players who have ties to the state of Florida and are making an impact. These five have been singled for the latest MO2 Sunshine State Spotlight. RHP Anthony…
The Miami Marlins were three outs away from their first ever four-game sweep of the Braves at Atlanta. It didn’t turn out that way, but in many ways, the Marlins turned the corner during the series By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd You want to be greedy, right? Of course, you do. Its like digging through a bag of chips when you’re hungry. You know you should stop, and crumple the big bag back up so you don’t spoil your appetite for…
The top of the rotation is in good hands for the Miami Marlins and Tampa Bay Rays. Sandy Alcantara and Tyler Glasnow are the aces of their respective staffs, and each impressed again on Monday night. What makes them special? MO2 takes a look. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Pick one or the other, either way, you can’t go wrong. Miami Marlins’ Sandy Alcantara and Tampa Bay Rays’ Tyler Glasnow have cemented their status as aces. They’re among the best right-handers…
The Braves have made a habit of frustrating the Marlins, especially at Truist Park. But on Monday, it was Miami’s turn to pull off some late and extra-innings heroics in a comeback victory. Man On Second weighs in on the spotlight performances. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The Marlins have had more than their share of frustrating finishes at Atlanta’s Truist Park. On Monday night, Miami flipped the script, and rallied to a 5-3 victory in extra innings against the Braves….
Editor’s note: We are thrilled to announce Andre Fernandez will be a contributor to Man On Second Baseball. Andre is a great friend as well as a great reporter/writer. He will be doing an array of assignments, including preps, which he spotlights today! Enjoy Andre’s work, and give him a follow! By Andre Fernandez @FernandezAndreC With the Major League Baseball Draft less than three months away, Man On Second Baseball has been tracking some of the top high school prospects…
Was it a strike? Was it a hit by pitch? What exactly happened? Michael Conforto’s controversial walk-off hit by pitch has the Mets celebrating and the Marlins fuming. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd In 20 years of covering MLB, I’ve seen my share of dramatic walk-off hits, along with some walk-off walks. I’ve seen a walk-off occur on a wild pitch while the pitcher was attempting to intentionally walk the batter. I’ve witnessed in person a walk-off no-hitter (Henderson Alvarez on…
The Marlins start the season with a 1-5 homestand after being swept by the Cardinals. There is urgency as Miami takes to the road, but too early to completely overreact. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Now is not the time to overreact. Still, it’s not too early to at least be a bit concerned over the Miami Marlins’ miserable opening homestand. The Marlins are off to a 1-5 start after being swept in their three-game series with the St. Louis Cardinals…
After falling to the St. Louis Cardinals for the second straight night, the Miami Marlins have now lost their first two series of the season. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — The Miami Marlins are a team that thrives on being the underdog, and feeds off momentum. Now, five games into the season, the Marlins are struggling to hit their stride getting out of the blocks. After dropping two of three to open the season to the Tampa Bay Rays,…
The votes were cast, and the final tally is in: In an exclusive Man On Second Baseball fan poll, fans selected Sandy Alcantara as the Marlins top priority to sign long-term. Here’s the rest of the results and analysis. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd The fans have spoken, and decisively, they support the Marlins prioritizing signing Sandy Alcantara to a long-term contract. In a one-day MO2 Twitter poll, fans were asked who Miami should prioritize, and sign to an extension: ace…
The Miami Marlins salvaged the Citrus Series finale with a 12-7 win over the Rays at loanDepot park, but Miami starter Elieser Hernandez exited with an injury By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — What Miami Marlins fans are seeing now is the makings of a team, over the reliance on a core. That’s the biggest difference between what is currently constructed compared to, say, 2017, when Giancarlo Stanton was the N.L. MVP, and Christian Yelich, Marcell Ozuna and J.T. Realmuto…
Man On Second Baseball is keeping tabs on the progress of players who are from the state of Florida or played college ball in the Sunshine State. We break down Ryan Mountcastle and Jonathan India. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd They’re impactful players now in the big leagues. But before starting their professional careers, their roots are in the state of Florida, which makes them natural targets for MO2. Remember, we aim to be “Everything Baseball in Florida.” The MLB season…
The Rays have claimed the first two games of the Citrus Series, coming back in the ninth inning to beat the Marlins 6-4 at loanDepot park By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — Just when it appeared the Citrus Series was about to be all evened up, the Rays rallied. Joey Wendle did the big damage, blasting a three-run home run off Anthony Bass in the ninth inning. Francisco Mejia tacked on a sacrifice fly, and Tampa Bay handed the Marlins…
Man On Second Baseball breaks down the Tampa Bay Rays’ 1-0 win over the Miami Marlins on Opening Day. These teams can pitch and field, and an Austin Meadows homer was the difference By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — For the most part, this is what it’s going to look like. Strong starting pitching and defense, and timely hitting. That’s the formula the Miami Marlins will be following because they lack an explosive lineup. Their challenge is a tough one…
The Marlins reached the National League Division Series last year, while the Rays went to the World Series. The Citrus Series has the makings of becoming a more popular showdown in the state of Florida By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — The days of scoffing at the Citrus Series should be over. The Tampa Bay Rays reached the World Series in 2020, and the Miami Marlins advanced to the National League Division Series. Florida’s two MLB teams are matched up…
Finding a naming rights partner is the latest major off field achievement for the Miami Marlins as the continue to enhance their brand name throughout South Florida and beyond. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd MIAMI — “Home Means Everything,” the tagline of loanDepot, is inscribed on a customized home plate that was displayed at the Miami Marlins naming rights news conference on Wednesday. These three words also tie in perfectly with the Marlins long-term vision of becoming an integral part of…
Starting pitching is the strength of the Miami Marlins organization. Still, there are plenty of questions in how the organization is going to map out innings for a talented, but mostly inexperienced group of starters By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Innings Management. Remember this term. Repeat several times in your head. Put it into memory. Bold face it: Innings Management. Italicize it: Innings Management. Now, repeat it after me, one more time: Innings Management. Got it? Good. Innings Management is the…
Naming Jazz Chisholm their everyday second baseman settles the Marlins’ most important Spring Training battle. Now the attention turns to what’s next for both Chisholm and Isan Diaz for both to develop into big league regulars. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Answering who will start the season at second base is the first step. Now, the focus flips to what it will take for both Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Isan Diaz to become big league regulars. This actually is more important…
The Miami Marlins made their decision official on Sunday afternoon. General manager Kim Ng announced that Chisholm will be at second in a decision over Diaz By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — The biggest question at Miami Marlins Spring Training has been answered. Jazz Chisholm Jr. will be the club’s starting second baseman on Opening Day, and Isan Diaz will start off at Triple-A Jacksonville. General manager Kim Ng made the announcement during the seventh inning on the Marlins’…
Figuring out second base has been probably the biggest question for the Marlins all Spring Training. At least, it’s the hottest topic among Miami’s position battles. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — No matter the outcome, neither candidate can say they didn’t have ample opportunity to be the Marlins’ Opening Day second baseman. Throughout Spring Training, the Marlins have maintained the decision could go down to the wire. Even though the numbers, statistically, have been appeared lopsided, the organization…
Man On Second Baseball looks back to Spring Training 2013, the year then outfield prospect Christian Yelich made his case to be on the Opening Day roster when the Miami Marlins already were committed to starting him off in the Minor Leagues. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Make the decision a tough one. That’s long been a Spring Training message conveyed by MLB clubs to prospects aiming to make Opening Day rosters. This Spring Training, Kansas City Royals phenom Bobby Witt…
Editor’s note: Man On Second Baseball is thrilled to announce former Palm Beach Post reporter Joe Capozzi will have some of his content appearing on the MO2 site. Joe covered the Marlins for many seasons, as well as news for the Post. He’s a tremendous writer, reporter and storyteller. Follow his writings on a wide range of subjects on byjoecapozzi.com The story below was originally published on Joe’s site. By Joe Capozzi GREENACRES, Fla. — The masked men started showing…
Long-time scout, Bob Johnson, who has four decades of scouting for big league clubs, offers his insights into how MLB teams scramble to finalize their Opening Day rosters By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd “Opt-out day” is one of those under-the-radar important dates on the MLB calendar. It’s the day when many non-roster invitees, those who haven’t been given an indication they will make the club, can exercise an out to become a free agent. It’s usually about a week before Opening…
Former Florida Gators and touted prospects Jackson Kowar and Jonathan India are among the players Man On Second Baseball is tracking. Kowar has been sent to Minor League camp, while India is a candidate to start for Cincinnati. Plus, other prospect updates By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Man On Second Baseball has been tracking some of the top prospects, whether they are competing in the Grapefruit League in Florida or the Cactus League in Arizona. We’ve already checked in on a…
Man On Second Baseball breaks down the Miami Marlins weekend games. They split two over the weekend, and gained some clarity on at least one more starting pitcher. Plus Jazz Chisholm making his push to be the everyday second baseman. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Strong starting pitching has been the constant for the Miami Marlins throughout Spring Training, and that held true over the weekend. Sixto Sanchez retired all nine batters he faced over three innings on Saturday night at…
The anticipated prep showdown between Calvary Christian Academy and IMG Academy lived up to the billing of high-end prep talent. Perhaps 10 future big leaguers and many more future college players were on the field Friday. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — “Game of the Year, Part II” lived up to the hype. Calvary Christian Academy, behind the power pitching of Irv Carter and Andrew Painter, defeated IMG Academy, 8-2, gaining revenge after losing about a week ago,…
Man On Second Baseball takes a look at several spotlight Miami Marlins in Spring Training. These players either are ready to take the next step in the big leagues, or are on the brink of making their presence felt, or will start off in the Minors and be rising quickly By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — What you see in Spring Training isnt necessarily what you’re going to get in the regular season. Man On Second Baseball can’t stress…
Hard-throwing right-hander Sandy Alcantara got the start on Wednesday against the Mets at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, he struck out nine and was announced as the Opening Day starter on Thursday. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Sandy Alcantara made a statement on Wednesday, striking out nine in five shutout innings. On Thursday, the Marlins made it official: the 25-year-old will start on Opening Day. Alcantara was the clear choice all along to face the Tampa Bay Rays on…
Man On Second Baseball is on the trail of former University of Florida greats, Brady Singer, Jackson Kowar and Jonathan India. The three were part of the Gators’ 2017 National Championship team, and they each were first-round picks in 2018. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd At the University of Florida, they are regarded as baseball legends. Right-handers Brady Singer and Jackson Kowar, along with third baseman Jonathan India are among the greatest players in UF history. The three were part of…
Monday was an eventful one for the Miami Marlins, with rookie Sixto Sanchez making his first Grapefruit League start, and veteran Gio Gonzalez pitched in a simulated game By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd WEST PALM BEACH — A couple of prominent pitchers for the Miami Marlins took the mound on Monday at two separate sites and settings, and both passed their respective, initial Spring Training checkpoints. Sixto Sanchez, the hard-throwing 22-year-old, made his Grapefruit League debut at The Ballpark of the…
Marlins right-hander Elieser Hernandez doesn’t overpower you with high velocity. Instead, he gets results with pinpoint control By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Throw strikes and compete. That pretty much sums up Marlins right-hander Elieser Hernandez. There’s really nothing fancy about how the 25-year-old goes about his business. Hernandez is an example of a player who gets the most out of his abilities. Without a dominant pitch arsenal, he effectively dots the strike zone, mixing in a fastball, slider…
Marlins infield prospect Jazz Chisholm is competing for the starting second base spot, but the bigger picture is his overall development. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Jazz Chisholm is competing to make the Marlins’ Opening Day roster as the starting second baseman. About three weeks to Opening Day, he probably is a bit behind Isan Diaz in the race. My message to Marlins’ fans is this: Don’t get caught up entirely on the Opening Day roster. In the…
Adrian Del Castillo of the University of Miami swatted a three-run homer on Tuesday and also became a candidate for the Buster Posey National Collegiate Catcher of the Year Award By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd CORAL GABLES, Fla. – If there was any doubt before, you can put them to rest. Adrian Del Castillo’s name definitely deserves to be mentioned with the top offensive performers in University of Miami’s storied baseball history. That is saying something, considering the caliber of players…
Man on Second Baseball is shining the spotlight on a group of prospects who have a chance to move up quickly. Check out the MO2 list. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Scan the landscape of Spring Training in Florida and Arizona, and there is no shortage of highly-rated prospects who have a chance to make an impact in the Major Leagues in the near future. Fans who have been able to attend Grapefruit and Cactus League games have a chance to…
All-Star left-hander Brad Hand is now an established reliever with the Nationals. MO2 reviews the missteps in Miami that led to success elsewhere, and this year the Marlins are expected to see plenty of him. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Brad Hand once again is attending Spring Training in Palm Beach County, and the 30-year-old left-hander is feeling right at home, for a number of reasons. Hand resides in the county, and he’s with a playoff contender in the Washington Nationals….
Man On Second Baseball introduces a new YouTube Channel feature called “What’s Joe Smokin.” This feature is to blend baseball and barbecuing, with Joe Frisaro offering tailgating tips while also talking a bit about baseball. Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Baseball and barbecuing. They are two of my passions, and thanks to the age of technology, I’m able to combine the two. “Man On Second Baseball” is off the grid coverage of baseball. Anything that can be attached to baseball is fair…
Marlins left-hander Trevor Rogers flashed an electric fastball and showed he will be tough to unseat from the rotation By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — The sample size may only be about week, but it could be a month or more, and the bottom line is going to stay the same. The Miami Marlins starting pitching is legit. It really is, and it was reinforced once again on Friday in Miamis 1-0 win over the Astros at Roger Dean…
Man On Second Baseball is keeping track of the top prospects from the state of Florida who have yet to play in an MLB game By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Baseball in the Sunshine State is as strong as ever. The state of Florida has long been a hotbed for producing baseball talent, and the pipeline of young players tracking toward the big leagues remains full. To help you keep up with them, Man On Second Baseball will be tracking some…
Man On Second Baseball sheds light on why Marlins traded Luis Castillo to the Reds in 2017 By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd So much of Marlins history is connected to players exiting the organization only to flourish elsewhere. The story of right-hander Luis Castillo being traded to the Reds in 2017 is one of them. Why would the Marlins part with a high-end pitching prospect just months after the death of All-Star Jose Fernandez? Man On Second Baseball has learned some…
Man On Second Baseball was at the Marlins-Cardinals Spring Training game. Neither team scored a run, but there are plenty of topics to cover By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Seven innings of scoreless baseball was hardly a “nothing to see here” afternoon at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. The Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals finished 0-0 in a seven-inning Grapefruit League game on a sweltering afternoon. MO2 (Man on Second) was on hand, and Joe Frisaro shares what…
Nolan Arenado and Christian Yelich, now N.L. Central rivals, won championship together on youth teams. The two All-Stars also were teammates in the World Baseball Classic. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — Nolan Arenado may be a newcomer with the St. Louis Cardinals, but the All-Star third baseman is no stranger to playing games at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Back in 2008, Arenado played on the loaded ABD Team in a Perfect Game tournament on the backfields at Roger…
Day One of Spring Training had plenty to cheer about, the Cardinals debut of Nolan Arenado; Marlins prospects Jazz Chisholm and JJ Bleday each homer By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd JUPITER, Fla. — The socially-distanced crowd at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium on Sunday gave St. Louis Cardinals All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado a standing ovation in his first Spring Training at-bat. The 29-year-old, making his debut with the organization, was hoping to deliver something in return to the crowd. Even though…
Back in 2014, Jose Fernandez and Carlos Martinez each came close to throwing 100 mph in first inning of first Spring Training Game. It was entertaining, but also caused concern. By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Gather around, everyone. You may want to take a seat, because you’ll want to pay attention. I’m about to tell you the story of back when, back in the old days. Back in 2014, a mere seven years ago according to the calendar, but it seems…
Some things to consider in the Marlins decision on who will play second base By Joe Frisaro @ManOn2nd Settle it on the field seems to be the stance the Marlins are taking in deciding who will be their Opening Day second baseman. The top two choices are Isan Diaz and Jazz Chisholm. At least that is how it will projects to start off. Both are left-handed hitters with power potential, and are considered core parts of Miami’s future. A right-handed…
Former MLB catcher J.P. Arencibia offers insights into how to evaluate Marlins catching prospect Will Banfield By Joe Frisaro/Man On Second Baseball JUPITER, Fla. What to make of Will Banfield is one of the more interesting topics for the Marlins’ fan base. The 21-year-old catching prospect is so advanced defensively, he would certainly have Gold Glove potential if he develops into an everyday player. But that isn’t a sure bet because of questions, and they’re fair, as to whether…
A breakdown of prospects that caught the eye of Man On Second Baseball By Joe Frisaro/Man On Second Baseball JUPITER, Fla. — The first few days of full-squad workouts are when players work on getting their bodies into playing shape. Pitchers and hitters are seeing each other for the first times, with the edge in favor of pitchers, who have been in camp a few days longer. Hitters usually are tracking pitches, and trying to find their timing. Man On…
Marlins players not buying predictions club is destined for last place By Joe Frisaro/Man On Second Baseball JUPITER, Fla. — Messaging was a big part of the Marlins’ success in 2020, and the players once again have a message for their detractors: They’re better than you think. After being MLB’s biggest surprise team a year ago, the Marlins once again find themselves in a familiar spot. They’re not getting much respect from the prognosticators. “We got picked again to be…
The 18-year-old freshman talks two grand slam night with Man On Second Baseball By Joe Frisaro/Man On Second Baseball Florida Atlantic University catcher Caleb Pendleton battled a case of butterflies before stepping to the plate in the first inning on Saturday night against the University of Central Florida. Before the first inning ended, the 18-year-old freshman’s name was gaining national attention. “Going into the weekend, I never would have imagined this happening to me,” Pendleton told Man On Second Baseball…
The best way to evaluate players in Spring Training is to pay attention to how they look at the end of camp over early performance By Joe Frisaro/Man on Second Baseball Spring Training is getting into full swing, as full-squad workouts are scheduled to begin Tuesday in Florida and Arizona. The arrival of position players elevates the excitement levels for the MLB clubs, players, coaching staffs, evaluation departments, as well as the media and fans. For the most part, players…
UM freshman Alejandro Rosario flashes potential, deals with adversity in first collegiate start By Joe Frisaro/Man on Second Baseball At Miami Christian High School, Alejandro Rosario was an integral part of state championship teams in 2018-19. On Saturday, the hard-throwing University of Miami right-hander dealt with a different level of competition, facing the top-ranked Florida Gators in Gainesville. Rosario certainly was tested, allowing five runs (two earned) on six hits, with four strikeouts, two walks in four innings. The first…
Former Dodgers, Marlins coach Tim Wallach gives an inside look into how teams handled Spring Training By Joe Frisaro/Man on Second Baseball The crunch of metal cleats biting into the concrete path leading to the back fields is typically the first sounds of spring each day in Jupiter, Fla. At roughly 9 a.m. ET every morning, dozens of players march from the clubhouse to their designated practice fields, where they warm up and get ready for the daily grind of…
By Joe Frisaro/Man on Second Baseball Talk about having a reason to bat flip! Fernando Tatis Jr., one of the young faces of Major League Baseball, has just knocked it out of the park with his pending mega contract extension. Tatis and San Diego Padres fans certainly have reason to admire this significant signing. The 22-year-old shortstop sensation has agreed to an exorbitant contract extension worth $340 million of 14 years. Tatis was smack in the center of “Slam Diego”…
