The Miami Marlins may not qualify for the NL playoffs this season, but their situation is definitely looking up. Starting pitcher Eury Perez, previously highlighted for his potential, brings attention to a rejuvenated offense. Key contributors include outfielders Kyle Stowers, infielders Xavier Edwards, and Otto Lopez. Over the last month, the Marlins have accumulated 122 runs, ranking them ninth in the league alongside the Chicago Cubs.
Stowers has become the most added player in ESPN standard leagues, despite being available in 58% of leagues. He recently closed the first half of the season with an impressive three-homer game against the Baltimore Orioles, contributing six RBIs. His All-Star Game participation and subsequent performance have raised his profile significantly. Following the break, he continued his success with two home runs, including a walk-off against the Kansas City Royals, totaling five home runs and 11 RBIs in just two games.
After being acquired from the Orioles along with Connor Norby for LHP Trevor Rogers, Stowers faced challenges last season, hitting only .186 and struggling with plate discipline. However, he has turned around this year, beginning the season strong with a .323 batting average and four home runs across March and April. Currently, his July stats highlight a .380 average and an impressive .880 slugging percentage.
In addition to Stowers, Lopez and Edwards are making notable contributions. Although Lopez’s power is often questioned, he has hit seven home runs and driven in 34 runs since June—ranking seventh in the league. He boasts double-digit home runs and stolen bases this season while maintaining a low strikeout rate, appealing to players in points leagues.
Edwards, leading off for the Marlins, has a .319 batting average from June onwards, which is sixth best in baseball. He has crossed home plate 26 times and swiped five bags, showcasing his contact-hitting ability. Both he and Lopez rank among the top 25 players with the lowest strikeout rates this season.
Stowers stands out as Miami’s power hitter while the most-frequent choice in ESPN leagues remains C/1B/DH Agustin Ramirez. The Marlins’ hitters warrant closer scrutiny as their performance begins to rise.
Additional Fantasy Picks
Several other players deserve attention in fantasy leagues, including Zach Neto, SS, Los Angeles Angels (available in 67.4%): After returning from shoulder surgery, Neto’s availability is surprising. He had a productive season last year with 23 homers and 30 steals. Though he’s striking out more and walking less this season, he has amassed 15 home runs and 18 steals, ranking among the top fantasy points scorers lately.
