The last thing I expected to see this offseason was the Miami Marlins spending money on an old, left-handed-hitting outfielder. Although we are still many steps away from that coming to fruition, Mike Yastrzemski is “one possibility for them,” Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports.
Yastrzemski has been a consistently average-to-very-good player ever since he debuted in the majors in 2019. This past season was on track to be arguably the worst of his career, but a deadline deal sending Yaz to the Kansas City Royals rejuvenated his bat. In 146 total games in 2025, he slashed .233/.333/.403 with 17 home runs and seven stolen bases, accumulating 2.4 fWAR. He turned 35 in August.
As Morosi noted in his report, Marlins general manager Gabe Kapler was the San Francisco Giants manager from 2020-2023. Yastrzemski was on the team throughout Kapler’s tenure.
It would still be a peculiar roster fit and use of resources. All-Star Kyle Stowers and standout rookie Jakob Marsee—both of whom also hit from the left side—are projected to be everyday starters for the Marlins. Griffin Conine and Heriberto Hernández could theoretically platoon to adequately fill the remaining corner outfield spot. Yastrzemski has generally rated well defensively, but his glove wouldn’t be a clear upgrade over any of those names, particularly at this stage of his career. This rumor gets more confusing if the Marlins are contemplating a multi-year commitment because one of the best bats in their farm system, outfielder Kemp Alderman, is poised to debut at some point in 2026.
Starting Yastrzemski primarily as Miami’s designated hitter would add some value. However, that implies AgustÃn RamÃrez will continue catching on a regular basis, and his struggles there would negate a lot of the offensive boost.
Maybe the Marlins intend to convert somebody to first base? That is their most glaring hole entering 2026. Yaz has no professional experience at the position, for what it’s worth.