Miami Marlins manager Don Mattingly announced that the team’s franchise player Giancarlo Stanton is probably lost for the season. Stanton sustained a severe groin pull trying to stretch a single into a double during the final out in last night’s game against the Chicago White Sox.
Although the 27-year old Stanton was hitting a career low .244, he led the team with 25 home runs and 70 RBI.
The Marlins are currently tied with the St. Louis Cardinals for the second NL Wild Card berth. The absence of Stanton creates a considerable void in the Marlins’ lineup. Coupled with the absence of Justin Bour, this puts a considerable burden on Christian Yelich and Marcell Ozuna to carry their offense.
Could the Marlins turn to former New York Yankee and now full-time Miami resident Alex Rodriguez?
The Marlins are certainly considering it.
If the Marlins did sign A-Rod, he would play first base in place of Bour although he has only played first base once in his entire 22-year career. But why would something like this stop Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria?
Honestly, I think the Marlins would probably be better off pursuing Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman who turns 27 next month and has nothing to do. But if Loria prefers a short term rental then why not longtime Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard?
Whatever move the Marlins make, it’s clear they must make a move.
