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MLB power rankings: Best player on each team

By Brad Berreman

Apr 17, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) during the game against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) during the game against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Miami Marlins: OF Giancarlo Stanton

Stanton’s track record shows some unrealized potential, with 140 or more games played just twice in seven seasons as injuries diminish his surface numbers on an annual basis. But his power is virtually unrivaled around baseball , and with MLB All-Star festivities coming to Marlins Park this year Stanton can be written in stone to defend his 2016 Home Run Derby title.

The Marlins made a substantial (excessive?) long-term investment in Stanton after the 2014 season, with a 13-year, $325 million contract (through 2027, with a $25 million club option for 2018) that is the richest in American pro sports history. He can opt-out after the 2020 season, at age 30, but that seems unlikely with the open market not bringing the paydays he’d otherwise have coming.

Perhaps due to an overall hesitancy to challenge his arm, Stanton’s outfield assist total dropped again in 2016 (to five). More advanced numbers show he’s a perfectly average to adequate right fielder, but clearly not a Gold-Glover.

It’s amazing to think Stanton may just be reaching his prime, in his age-27 season now. Better health is really all that’s keeping him from hitting 40-50 home runs every year, and one of these years Stanton will do it. One thing there is no doubt about? He’s the Marlins’ best player, now and  into the future.

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