Miami Marlins outfielder Jorge Soler is at again with his home run power. This is something the Marlins’ coaches, and even the fans, have been waiting for. The slugger is in the middle of a comeback season, and already has 21 home runs, the third most of his career. He also has 45 RBI, and 40 runs scored over 254 at-bats. Soler isn’t much of a threat on the base paths, however. He only has one stolen base on the year. His OBP is .358, and his SLG. is .551.
Injuries in 2022
Last season Soler was on pace for thirty home runs, but injuries that landed him on the IL twice limited him to only 72 games. Bilateral pelvic inflammation hit first, and put him in the IL from June 29 to July 14. Later on, lower back spasms ended his season. In the offseason, he worked on strengthening, and exercises focusing on his back. It is fair to say that he has bounced back nicely from each of those injuries.
Former Teammate
Part of Jorge Soler’s success is due to help from former teammate John Jay. Jay was hired as an outfield coach, and knows Soler’s style of play and has been hitting ground balls, and throwing batting practice to him. Soler was to be a designated hitter primarily. Soler has played fifty games there.
He has played in the outfield as well, where he has yet to make an error. He has collaborated with Jay on where to play and how to chase down fly balls hit in the power alley. Jay can certainly help with Soler’s mindset, too, when he is slumping. A good mindset is important for any player. How you combine a player’s mindset and abilities determine how good a coach you are, and that is what Jay wants to be, a good coach.
Marlins are a Surprise
The Marlins have been one of the surprise teams of the 2023 season. As of this writing they are 42–32, their second-best 74–game record in franchise history. They are also ten games over .500 for the first time since May of 2011. Under first-year manager Skip Schumaker, they have the third-best mark in the NL and are 18–5 in one run games. That could go a long way in helping them in their playoff push.
Feeling Good Now
Jorge Soler is at again. His power numbers are climbing, and it is safe to say he is feeling good at the plate right now. Soler is looking at the ball in an effective way and is getting excellent results. Everyone can see how better he looks at the plate. The only issue that could hinder him is his health. So far, so good with that. There have been no problems. If he can remain healthy the rest of the season, he will be a big part of the Marlins’ success as they look to make a push for a playoff spot. That would be a welcome sight to Marlins fan everywhere. Time will tell if it happens.
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Miami Marlins
