April 17, 200422 yr By: Miguel Lorenzo MarlinsBaseball.com Columnist Miguel Lorenzo's Columnist Page It was not too long ago that every major sports media outlet on the face of this planet gave out their season predictions for the 2004 Major League Season. It was also not too long ago that almost every ?expert? in those media outlets picked the Philadelphia Phillies to win the NL East division. While there are still more than 150 plus games left in the season, the defending World Champion Florida Marlins are showing why the Marlins should still be the favorites. It?s not just the amazing starting rotation the Marlins have sported to start the season given the fact one of their best pitchers in A.J. Burnett won?t possibly start till June. It?s not just the power shown early on this season from phenom Miguel Cabrera and newcomer Hee Seop Choi. It?s not even thanks mainly to what has been a shutdown bullpen. It?s the confidence this team brings to the field every game, and every day. Even before the Marlins got off to this hot start, they knew they were this good. It?s only now that everyone is else, including Marlins? fans are realizing it too. While many find the Marlins blazing start unexpected, it?s nothing compared to the way this team can play when at it?s best. Let?s be honest, besides Cabrera and Choi, the Marlins have not been hitting for the fences as much as they can. In addition, one of the main strengths for Florida last season was their speed on the bases yet they?ve been unable to get off the ground. The Marlins are also getting off the right foot without up and coming reliever Tim Spooneybarger and one of their star aces in A.J. Burnett who could match the greatness of Josh Beckett if he can return from Tommy John?s Surgery successfully. The Marlins have the pitching working for them. They have the fan support blossoming more than ever before. They also have the hitting working for them, but the most important thing this team has which has translated from last season to this season is their confidence. The Marlins are showing why they are the best team in the league; the only question remaining is whether you have the confidence in them to last all season.
April 17, 200422 yr Thanks guys. :thumbup Not too long this time, but sweet and to the point. Awesomeness again.
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