DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL East—CF competition in Miami

Miami Marlins

Justin Ruggiano (OF, MIA) entered spring as the heavy favorite to be the primary center fielder for the Marlins, but it turns out he may be in for a battle. A lower back strain kept him out of spring action until March 9 and opened the door for Chris Coghlan (OF, MIA) and Gorkys Hernández (OF, MIA).  Manager Mike Redmond has deemed the job an open competition.

Ruggiano came out of nowhere to post strong numbers in 288 AB with the Marlins in 2012. A closer look reveals he was very fortunate. A 40% h% propelled him to a .313 BA,  well above his .265 xBA. His SB will be tough to repeat due to a 27% SBO. With a SB success rate of just 64% and a 102 Spd, it would be a surprise if he was given the green light as often this...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
Robert Stock has excelled at limiting hard contact, but can he become efficient enough to earn a win? Plus: 1B & SP in MIA; INF & SP in PHI; 1B in WAS; SP in ATL; more.
Aug 24 2026 3:37am
This week, we check in on late-season closer options in both L.A. and Colorado, watch as new playing time changes become clearer in S.F. and S.D., and welcome some guys to (or back to) the majors.
Aug 22 2026 3:07am
With Dansby Swanson dealing with an oblique issue, Ramírez should see regular at bats.
Aug 21 2026 3:05am

Tools