Addressing who the first base position has been difficult recently for the Miami Marlins, as there has been a persistent revolving door there. Solving that should be a top priority as the club prepares for 2027, so the front office faces key decisions at the position

Out of the players we have seen thus far, Kyle Stowers stands out as the roster's most proven option. Bringing middle-of-the-order power, his versatility across first base and the outfield gives manager Clayton McCullough valuable lineup flexibility.

However, Stowers is naturally more comfortable in the outfield, and injuries have repeatedly disrupted his playing time. Miami must evaluate whether his offensive impact is best utilized in their lineup or leveraged to fetch a strong return on the trade market.

That trade dynamic came into focus during the 2026 deadline. Given his remaining club control, youth, and power profile, Stowers is no temporary rental and would command a significant return. Barring an exceptional offer, holding onto him remains the logical path, though his presence shouldn't deter the Marlins from seeking a superior defensive option at first base.

Among homegrown options, Kemp Alderman is the most compelling candidate. The former Ole Miss star showcased his upside at Triple-A Jacksonville in 2026, hitting 19 home runs and driving in 64 runs over 105 games.

Even so, a .254 batting average and .335 on-base percentage highlight areas for growth. While Alderman possesses elite raw strength, refining his plate discipline and reducing his chase rate will be critical to translating that power to the majors. Demonstrating those adjustments in spring training could earn him an immediate shot.

Jonathon Long is another name worth watching. Acquired from the Chicago Cubs during the 2026 season, he brings experience at first base and a track record of production in the upper minors. He could offer a more natural positional fit, although Miami will want to see how his bat translates against big-league pitching before handing him an everyday job.

Deyvison De Los Santos also remains in the conversation. His power is enticing, but questions about his plate discipline and defensive fit make him less of a sure thing. Griffin Conine has shown raw power and could provide another option, though the Marlins may prefer to keep him in the outfield if that is where he helps the roster most.

The organization’s history at first base underscores the need for a solution rather than another season of rotating players through the position. As Fish On First noted before the 2026 season, Miami’s projected production at first base was among the weakest in the majors. That cannot remain acceptable if the club intends to take another step forward.

Ideally, Alderman forces his name onto the lineup card, with Stowers available to move between first and the outfield. Long and De Los Santos would provide competition and depth. But if none separates himself, Peter Bendix should pursue a proven first baseman in free agency or through a trade.

For now, Alderman is the prospect to watch, while Stowers is the safest incumbent option. The ultimate answer may be a competition, but Miami needs one player to claim the position — and keep it.

While a spring training competition might end up deciding the starter, the Marlins urgently need someone to take ownership of first base for the long haul.

For now, Kyle Stowers represents the most dependable internal choice, whereas Kemp Alderman stands out as the organization's top prospect to monitor at the position.