On October 26, 1997, the Florida Marlins went from an MLB expansion toddler to a grown-up World Series champion when they defeated the Cleveland Indians in the 11th inning of a Game 7, walk-off win.

For a team that had existed for only five seasons, it was a remarkable achievement — and one that would become even more fascinating because of what happened next.

The Marlins entered the postseason as a wild-card team, finishing the regular season with an 92-70 record under manager Jim Leyland. They defeated the San Francisco Giants in the National League Division Series before overcoming the Atlanta Braves in the NL Championship Series to reach the Fall Classic.

Facing a Cleveland team loaded with offensive talent, the Fish were definitely the underdog. The series went the full seven games, with the Marlins ultimately prevailing in one of the most memorable finishes in World Series history.

Game 7 was a fitting conclusion to the series. The Tribe took a 2-1 lead into the bottom of the ninth, but Craig Counsell's sacrifice fly tied the game and forced extra innings. Both teams battled through the 10th before Florida finally broke through in the 11th.

With the bases loaded and two outs, Renteria hit a ground ball up the middle off Cleveland reliever Charles Nagy. The ball deflected off the pitcher's glove and rolled into center field, allowing Counsell to score the winning run.

The roster featured a mixture of established stars and key contributors. Gary Sheffield and Kevin Brown brought star power, while Bobby Bonilla, Moises Alou, and Jeff Conine provided important offensive production. Brown anchored the pitching staff, and closer Robb Nen helped secure the team's postseason success.

Marlins ownership, led by H. Wayne Huizenga, began shedding expensive contracts almost immediately. Brown was traded to San Diego, Sheffield was dealt to Los Angeles, and Alou was sent to Houston. Bonilla and other veterans also departed as the organization dramatically reduced its payroll.

The result was a stunning contrast: the Marlins had just become world champions, but the team that accomplished the feat was quickly broken apart. Florida's 1998 club fell to 54-108, a 34-win drop from its championship season.

Still, the 1997 title could never be erased. Renteria's hit remains an iconic moment in South Florida sports history, and the championship established a winning tradition that would eventually include another World Series title in 2003.

The Marlins proved they could reach baseball's highest peak. The story of what followed became a reminder that winning a championship and sustaining a championship team are two very different challenges.

Even so, the glory of the 1997 championship remains indelible. Renteria's dramatic hit stands as a signature highlight in South Florida sports history, cementing a tradition of excellence that paved the way for a second crown in 2003.

Ultimately, the Marlins demonstrated their ability to capture baseball's ultimate prize. What transpired afterward serves as a lasting testament to the distinction between earning a title and maintaining a championship-caliber franchise.