10 greatest Miami Marlins players of all time, ranked

Giancarlo Stanton stands atop the Marlins’ all-time list as the franchise’s most prolific power hitter and overall player. During his eight seasons in Miami, Stanton smashed a club-record 267 home runs and drove in 672 runs, all while posting an imposing .914 OPS. His 2017 season was nothing short of legendary: Stanton led the majors with 59 home runs, won the National League MVP, and captured the Hank Aaron Award, cementing his place in Marlins lore.

Beyond the numbers, Stanton was the face of the franchise through lean years and constant roster churn. He made four All-Star teams as a Marlin and won two Silver Sluggers, earning a reputation for tape-measure home runs that electrified crowds. Stanton’s combination of raw power, patience, and leadership made him the most feared hitter in team history and the standard by which all future Marlins sluggers will be measured.

2. Hanley Ramírez (2006–2012)

Hanley Ramírez brought a rare blend of speed, power, and flair to the Marlins’ infield, quickly establishing himself as one of the best shortstops in baseball. Acquired in a franchise-altering trade, Ramírez won the 2006 NL Rookie of the Year and followed with three All-Star selections, two Silver Sluggers, and a batting title in 2009. He finished second in MVP voting that year, hitting .342 with 24 home runs and 106 RBIs.

Ramírez ranks second in franchise history in hits and third in home runs, and his .873 OPS as a Marlin underscores his offensive dominance. Despite defensive struggles, his peak from 2006–2009 was among the best for any shortstop in the game. Ramírez’s dynamic presence and ability to impact the game in multiple ways make him an easy choice near the top of this list.

3. Luis Castillo (1996–2005)

Luis Castillo was the engine of the Marlins’ offense and the heart of their defense for a decade. A three-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner, Castillo set franchise records for hits (1,273) and stolen bases (281). His 35-game hitting streak in 2002 remains the longest in Marlins history. Castillo’s best season came in 2003, when he hit .314 and helped lead the team to its second World Series title.

Castillo’s ability to get on base, swipe bags, and play elite defense made him invaluable. He was twice named team MVP and led the NL in stolen bases twice. Castillo’s consistency and leadership through multiple eras of Marlins baseball make him one of the franchise’s most beloved and accomplished players.

4. Miguel Cabrera (2003–2007)

Miguel Cabrera’s Marlins tenure was brief but spectacular. Debuting as a 20-year-old in 2003, Cabrera immediately became a postseason hero, helping the Marlins win the World Series with clutch hits. Over five seasons, he hit .313 with 138 home runs and 523 RBIs, earning four All-Star selections and two Silver Sluggers.

Cabrera’s advanced approach at the plate and ability to hit for both average and power were evident from the start. His 143 OPS+ as a Marlin is among the best in franchise history. Though his Hall of Fame career blossomed elsewhere, Cabrera’s impact in Miami was enormous, and he remains one of the greatest talents to ever wear a Marlins uniform.

5. Josh Johnson (2005–2012)

Josh Johnson was the Marlins’ ace during a period of transition, anchoring the rotation with a devastating fastball-slider combination. Johnson posted a 3.15 ERA and 832 strikeouts in 916.2 innings as a Marlin, making two All-Star teams and leading the NL in ERA in 2010. His 133 ERA+ is the best among Marlins starters with significant innings.

Injuries ultimately shortened his peak, but at his best, Johnson was one of the most dominant pitchers in the National League. His presence atop the rotation gave the Marlins a chance to win every fifth day, and his pitching WAR remains the highest among franchise hurlers. Johnson’s legacy is that of a true staff ace and a pillar of Marlins pitching history.

6. Mike Lowell (1999–2005)

Mike Lowell was the steady hand at third base for the Marlins, providing both power and leadership. Over seven seasons, Lowell hit 143 home runs and drove in 578 runs, earning three All-Star selections and a Gold Glove. His best season came in 2003, when he hit 32 home runs and helped lead the Marlins to a World Series title.

Lowell’s professionalism and clutch hitting made him a fan favorite and a respected clubhouse leader. His impact was felt both on the field and in the community, and his consistency at the hot corner helped stabilize the Marlins during their most successful era. Lowell’s contributions make him one of the franchise’s cornerstones.

7. Dan Uggla (2006–2010)

Dan Uggla brought unprecedented power to second base, hitting 154 home runs in just five seasons with the Marlins. Uggla was a three-time All-Star and won a Silver Slugger in 2010, setting franchise records for home runs by a second baseman. His 2010 season was his best, with 33 home runs and 105 RBIs.

Uggla’s aggressive approach and knack for the long ball made him a constant threat in the lineup. He ranks among the team’s all-time leaders in RBIs and total bases, and his durability was unmatched. Uggla’s legacy is that of a power-hitting infielder who redefined the position for the Marlins.

8. Gary Sheffield (1993–1998)

Gary Sheffield was one of the original Marlins superstars, joining the team in its inaugural season and quickly establishing himself as an elite hitter. In six seasons, Sheffield hit .288 with 122 home runs and a .970 OPS, making two All-Star teams and helping the Marlins win the 1997 World Series.

Sheffield’s plate discipline and power made him a force in the middle of the order. He finished sixth in MVP voting in 1996 after hitting 42 home runs. Sheffield’s swagger and production made him a foundational player in Marlins history and a key figure in their first championship run

9. Jeff Conine (1993–1997, 2003–2005)

Known as “Mr. Marlin,” Jeff Conine was the heart and soul of the franchise during its formative years. Conine hit .290 with 120 home runs and 553 RBIs over two stints with the team, making two All-Star teams and playing a pivotal role in both World Series championships.

Conine’s versatility and clutch performances endeared him to fans and teammates alike. He played multiple positions and always seemed to deliver in big moments. Conine’s leadership and longevity make him a true Marlins legend and one of the most respected players in franchise history.

10. Juan Pierre (2003–2005)

Juan Pierre’s speed and energy defined the Miami Marlins’ style during their 2003 championship season. In three years with Miami, Pierre hit .303, stole 167 bases, and played in every game, setting the tone at the top of the lineup

Pierre’s relentless approach and ability to manufacture runs made him a catalyst for the Marlins’ offense. His performance in the 2003 postseason, particularly in the World Series, was instrumental in securing the title. Pierre’s impact, though brief, was immense and earns him a place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

These ten players represent the very best of Miami Marlins baseball, each leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the franchise’s identity.