Last season, two Marins hitting prospects, Mike Stanton and Logan Morrison, tore up their respective leagues as the duo combined to hit a whopping 52 homeruns. These two power hitters, along with Cameron Maybin and Chris Volstad provide a bright future for the Marlins who have struggled as of late.
Stanton was picked in the 2nd round or the 2007 draft. He possesses serious power which he showed off by hitting 39 homeruns at A- as a 19 year old. While he hit .293, Stanton struck out 153 times in 468 at-bats and will need to cut that number down as he ascends through the minors. The outfielder plays below average defense, however that shouldn't hinder him from reaching the majors. If he can improve his plate discipline, Stanton should be able to move quickly through the minors and become star in Florida's outfield for years to come.
Though he doesn't have the same kind of power as Stanton, Logan Morrison should be a star in his own right. Morrison hit .332 at A+ last year while striking out 80 times and walking 57 times in 488 at-bats last year in the offense-depressed Florida State League. The first baseman showed decent pop, hitting 13 homeruns and posting a .494 slugging percentage. Florida's first base position is wide open with the departure of Mike Jacobs. Morrison, who should start the season in AA has a chance to be a September callup in 2009 and a starter in 2010.
With a large crop of prospects ready to jump into the majors over the next 2 years, the Marlins should be contenders again. Look for them to make a playoff push in 2010.
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