The Miami Marlins’ offseason needs they will focus on upgrading a few positions. They are looking to surpass their 79-83 record from last season and make a serious run at a playoff spot.
Help at First Base
The team needs help at first base. The Marlins had first base troubles on both defense and offense last season. Eric Wagaman led the NL first basemen in errors. On top of that, he hit just .250 overall—though he did show improvement at the plate. In July, he was hitting under .120. Wagaman recovered and wound up hitting over .360 in September. They not only need defensive consistency at first base, but they also need that player to be effective at the plate on offense.
Power Hitting Outfielder
The Marlins are also looking for a power-hitting outfielder. They would like a right-handed bat to go along with the left-handed bat of Kyle Stowers. Stowers led the team with 25 home runs but having that extra right-handed bat is essential to taking the next step in competitiveness.
Bullpen Depth
The Miami Marlins’ offseason needs also include building bullpen depth. The team is looking to add some experienced relievers. They will be looking for proven veterans to guide, influence, and provide stability to their young, inexperienced arms. There will be plenty of bullpen arms available. However, most teams, if not all, are seeking pitching help too. The Marlins will have to be diligent in signing them quickly.
Established Closer
Calvin Faucher, who was the closer last season, is a strong candidate for that role again in 2026. However, with only 22 career saves, the Marlins might go in for an established closer with more experience. If they do, Faucher, who is a versatile bullpen arm, could easily move into the setup spot.
Veteran Catcher
Agustin Ramirez had a decent offensive rookie season. He hit 21 home runs with 67 RBIs. What he needs to improve on is his defense. He led all NL catchers in errors and passed balls. With his inexperience and defensive inadequacies, the Marlins will be looking for a veteran backup, one who can provide reliable defense and manage a pitching staff. Adding a veteran also offers that experienced presence and can serve as a mentor to every player on the team.
No Trades Involving Starting Pitching
The Marlins have some good starting pitching and will likely field trade calls on Sandy Alcantara and even Edward Cabrera. However, the team mentioned they are not looking to trade either player. At 22, Eury Pérez looks like he has a bright future and will also not be involved in trade talks. Pérez reestablished himself after a 2024 Tommy John surgery, showing not only mental toughness but a fastball that hits 99 mph.
Next Six Weeks
The Winter Meetings are wrapping up, but we expect the Marlins to continue looking for players over the next six weeks. They have starting pitching depth, and though they say they are not trading the starters mentioned, if there is a chance to land a power hitter or a veteran first baseman via trade, we will see whether that holds.
Outlook
Although the Marlins did not finish with a winning record in 2025, the team had a better-than-expected season and remained in the playoff race into September. With a few signings or trades to address their needs and weaknesses, they could make a run at a winning record and a playoff spot.
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