Jakob Marsee’s left elbow discomfort could create uncertainty in center field for the Miami Marlins as a long offseason gets underway.
It is very early in the offseason, but the Miami Marlins may need to address center field as the offseason progresses.
Jakob Marsee, Miami's primary center fielder this season, experienced left elbow discomfort, and it was reported Tuesday that he would visit Dr. Keith Meister for further evaluation.
Despite the disappointing news, optimism remains around the organization.
Whenever a player visits Dr. Meister, Tommy John surgery looms, and if Marsee has to go that route, he may miss most, if not, all of the 2027 campaign, resulting in Miami needing to pivot elsewhere to fill Marsee’s spot.
Manager Clayton McCullough used a combination of Javier Sanoja, who primarily played third base, and Esteury Ruiz, who shifted between left and right field, to replace Marsee.
Sanoja could be the more natural internal option if the Marlins decide they want to keep the position in-house.
While he mainly played third base, his ability to move around the diamond gives Miami some flexibility heading into the offseason.
The Marlins could also look at Ruiz, who has experience playing all three outfield positions and could take over in center field if needed, assuming he remains with Miami in 2027.
However, neither player entered the season as Miami's long-term answer in center field. That could leave the Marlins with a decision to make if Marsee is unavailable for an extended period.
Marsee's potential absence would be particularly significant because of the role he played in Miami's outfield. Losing an established option in center field would force the Marlins to determine whether they are comfortable relying on their current group or whether they should look outside the organization for help.
The free agent and trade market could provide Miami with additional options, although the Marlins do not necessarily need to make a decision immediately. Much will depend on the severity of Marsee's elbow issue and whether he ultimately needs surgery.
For now, Miami can wait for more information before committing to a plan. If Marsee receives good news from Dr. Meister, the need to add a center fielder could disappear. If the injury is more serious, however, center field could quickly become one of the Marlins' biggest needs this offseason.
Marlins President of Baseball Operations Peter Bendix confirmed to reporters Tuesday that McCullough will return to the club in 2027, marking a critical third season as he tries to lead the Marlins to a playoff spot.
