Three questions facing the Miami Marlins this offseason

The Miami Marlins were one of the more pleasant surprises in Major League Baseball this season.

Although the Marlins were expected to finish at the bottom of the NL East, they managed to remain in the playoff hunt until the final few days of the season. Overall, their 79-83 record marked a 17-game improvement over their performance in 2024.

The future appears bright in Miami. The Marlins' young lineup showed its potential and continued to develop throughout the season. Likewise, the decision to keep players such as Sandy Alcantara at the trade deadline sets the Marlins up well for 2026.

Miami has quietly built a team that could contend for a playoff berth next year. Let's take a look at three questions surrounding the Marlins heading into the offseason.

Three questions for the Miami Marlins in the offseason

1. Is Sandy Alcantara back and ready to perform at an All-Star level?

Alcantara struggled in his first year back following Tommy John surgery. He posted a career-worst 5.36 ERA and a 1.271 WHiP over 174.1 innings, striking out 142 batters with 57 walks. However, Alcantara also made 31 starts for the Marlins, giving hope that he can return to being a workhorse in Miami.

There may be even more reason for optimism. Alcantara had an excellent second half, posting a 3.33 ERA and a 1.040 WHiP in 83.2 innings after the All-Star Break, striking out 71 batters with 20 walks. If Alcantara can build off of his strong second half, he may be back to being the ace the Marlins need.

2. What to do with Agustin Ramirez

Ramirez was one of the more valuable hitters in the Marlins lineup, posting a solid .231/.287/.413 batting line with 21 homers and 33 doubles in 585 plate appearances while leading major league catchers with 16 steals. The problem is that Ramirez was also the Marlins' worst defensive player.

The Marlins also have another catching prospect on the cusp of reaching the majors. Joe Mack, the 70th best prospect in baseball per MLB.com, has been lauded for his strong arm and solid defensive skills, while also demonstrating that he can be a reliable option at the plate. The Marlins have a potential opening at first base where Eric Wagaman does not have the type of offensive profile for the position. However, Ramirez has just 27 games of experience at first over three years in the minors. If Mack is ready, Ramirez may find himself limited to DH duty.

3. Will the Marlins spend on their young roster?

The Marlins have a total of five players who are either under contract or arbitration-eligible. In theory, this gives the front office the financial resources to either pursue extensions with youngsters such as outfielder Kyle Stowers or pitcher Eury Perez. That financial flexibility may also allow the Marlins to be surprisingly active during free agency.

The Marlins need to improve at both corner infield spots and in right field if the lineup is going to take a significant step forward. A dependable middle-of-the-rotation starter would help balance out a young and somewhat volatile staff. The Marlins also need help in the middle of the bullpen to bridge the gap to closer Ronny Henriquez. While some of these areas may improve as the younger players develop, the Marlins will need to go shopping to take that next step in 2026.