Main Story: Miami finished 2026 at 80-82, eight games short of the final National League Wild Card spot. To turn that progress into a postseason berth in 2027, the Marlins can sharpen their defense, cut costly baserunning mistakes and build a more effective offensive approach around their roster.

By the Numbers
  • Miami went 80-82 and finished 8 games out of the final NL Wild Card spot.
  • The Marlins ranked 14th in fielding run value at 9 and tied for 13th in Outs Above Average at 10.
  • Miami recorded an MLB-high 20 pickoffs and 66 outs on the bases.
  • Milwaukee averaged 3.97 pitches per plate appearance, reached a .341 on-base percentage and drew walks at a 10.6% rate.
Yes, But

There’s no single offensive blueprint: Milwaukee’s patient, high-on-base approach differs from Tampa Bay’s, which used fewer pitches per plate appearance while producing similar batting and slugging averages. Miami’s best path depends on its personnel, not simply copying another club.

State of Play
  • Shortstop Otto Lopez and center fielder Jakob Marsee provide defensive strengths, while first base and right field are potential areas to improve.
  • Second baseman Xavier Edwards’ defense slipped from 9 OAA in 2025 to -2 in 2026.
  • Griffin Conine offers a promising blend of power and on-base ability, with 19 home runs in 94 games and a .353 OBP.
What's Next

Miami’s offseason challenge is to turn the identified weaknesses into measurable gains—especially by reducing outs on the bases, improving defense at vulnerable positions and shaping a plate approach that fits its hitters.

Bottom Line

The Marlins have made progress, but reaching the playoffs will require cleaner execution. Better run prevention and fewer squandered opportunities could help close the gap without relying on one dramatic roster change.