Jacob Lombard’s Next Step as Marlins Welcome Their 2026 Class

MIAMI — The biggest storyline surrounding the Miami Marlins in 2026 is when the club will snap its franchise-record-tying 11-game losing streak, which has dropped the team one game below .500.

Jacob Lombard’s journey with the Marlins, however, took another step forward Friday when the organization’s 2026 draft class visited loanDepot park before the start of a six-game, six-day homestand.

The centerpiece of the class was Lombard, the Marlins' first-round selection taken No. 14 overall in the 2026 MLB Draft.

The 18-year-old shortstop, who played high school baseball at Gulliver Prep in Pinecrest, Florida, was surrounded by teammates, coaches and members of the Marlins as he experienced another milestone moment after hearing his name called in the first round this month. 

Lombard spent part of the afternoon speaking with Marlins Radio play-by-play announcer Jack McMullen, discussing his draft experience, his excitement about joining Miami and what comes next as he begins his professional career.

“I’m really proud of being a Marlin and proud of representing Miami,” Lombard told McMullen.

After becoming one of the newest members of the organization, Lombard knows the next phase will be about development and preparation.

His upcoming trip to the Marlins' player development complex in Jupiter will give him his first opportunity to begin working with the organization's staff and learn what it takes to make the transition from high school baseball to the professional level.

Although Lombard's path to the major leagues is just beginning, he has already experienced several moments that have made the process memorable.

Friday added another one when he stepped onto the field at loanDepot park to throw out the ceremonial first pitch to Marlins left-handed reliever Dax Fulton, a second-round pick in 2020.

The organization has examples of young players developing into major league contributors.

Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez has become one of Miami’s biggest success stories during the 2026 season, earning an All-Star selection after putting together an impressive year.

Lopez's emergence represents the type of progression the Marlins hope to see from players like Lombard.

After working through the minor leagues, Lopez, who was designated for assignment twice, established himself as a trustworthy presence for Miami and showed how player development can lead to a major league opportunity.

Eventually, the Marlins hope Lombard can become another important piece of their future.

Whether that comes as a shortstop, an infielder or simply another talented player contributing to a young core, Miami believes he has the ability to make an impact.

“I would say a player that brings all five tools to the table and can affect the game in every aspect,” Lombard confidently said.

For now, Lombard’s focus remains on the work ahead while, as he said, taking it one day at a time.

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