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MLB Opening Day: 1 reason every team could win the World Series

By Matt Whitener

Mar 21, 2016; Melbourne, FL, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) signs autographs prior to a game against the Houston Astros at Space Coast Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 21, 2016; Melbourne, FL, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) signs autographs prior to a game against the Houston Astros at Space Coast Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 25, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Jose Fernandez (16) looks on from the pitchers mound during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Jose Fernandez (16) looks on from the pitchers mound during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

Miami Marlins: Putting all of their fish and chips forward

The Marlins are hoping for a collective breakout year from… everyone. Miami ranked 21st in runs scored last season, and 16th in team ERA. That translated to 71 wins for a team that had playoff aspirations heading into the season.

The first thing they’ll need to win it all is for Giancarlo Stanton to be healthy. Stanton is one of the premier right fielders in the league and is capable of carrying a team. He’ll need some help though. Between Christian Yelich, Adeiny Hechavarria and Dee Gordon, there’s plenty of talent on this roster. If the three of those guys break out offensively, Stanton will have plenty of assistance in turning this into a championship offense.

Combine the increased offense with Jose Fernandez and the newly acquired Wei-Yin Chen, Miami will pitch a little too. Fernandez was outstanding in his 11 starts returning from Tommy John surgery. Chen should not only slot in nicely behind Fernandez in the rotation, but he should also improve Miami’s abysmal walk rate from 2015.

For the Marlins, a World Series rides on their health. A full season of Stanton combined with some better offensive numbers from their young core will make the Marlins an offensive force in the National League. The pitching staff won’t be great, but it will improve enough just by virtue of adding a healthy Fernandez and Chen. All of these things going the Marlins’ way will have the Commissioner’s Trophy taking its talents to South Beach.

Next: Milwaukee Brewers

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