MLB predictions: 1 bold prediction for every NL East team

MLB spring training: 1 bold prediction for every NL East team

Oct 11, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) reacts after hitting a double against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning during game one of the NLDS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

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Garrett Cooper, Miami Marlins, Chicago White Sox

Garrett Cooper #26 of the Miami Marlins looks on during a baseball game against at the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on July 3, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /

MLB predictions: Miami Marlins

The Marlins add another first baseman before Opening Day.

Garrett Cooper is entrenched as the Miami Marlins’ everyday first baseman, but has an extensive injury history and thus has only reached 400 plate appearances in a season twice in his career.

The Marlins have explored first base options – Yuri Gurriel being among them – but the state of those conversations with the longtime Astros slugger have always been overblown. But I do think the Marlins have a realistic chance of adding another first baseman on a minor-league contract before Opening Day.

Who that will be remains unclear. But general manager Kim Ng has been aggressive in addressing her roster this offseason, and additional first base depth behind Cooper makes plenty of sense.

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