The Marlins as always have plenty of young talent that is scratching the surface. But, with this scratch, and to continue it, owner Jeffery Loria will need to open his wallet. The stadium is being built, and the stars for the future success are aligned. The elephant that is in the room is the contract status of pitcher Josh Johnson. This ace that can lead this staff for the next 6-8 years has become the type of pitcher that you want starting game 7 of the World Series. Time is ticking and by coming to Johnson with a contract offer sooner than later would show this kid the level of confidence and willingness to pay to win. The Marlins track record of not paying is not very attractive around the league. Players see the team as a stepping stone to greater day instead of a home. This culture of trading proven talent for unproven talent just to unload salary needs to end. Hanley Ramirez is locked up, but the stars that will lead this team to sustained playoff appearances aren’t. Cameron Maybin, Chris Coghlan, Gaby Sanchez, and Anibal Sanchez are all going to be key cogs in this bright future. Along with infusing some quality veteran leadership this team will be a force. But for this to happen, Loria and the front office will need to pay players, show them that this is no layover, but a destination. Baseball in South Florida should be an easy sell; no income tax, beautiful weather, a brand new stadium, and a proven front office. Only time will tell where the front office team will steer this ship in the coming years, but to create a winner, greater culture must be set. If they are waiting on the fans to show up, build a steady playoff contender and they will come.
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