In recent weeks, Miami Marlins outfielder Jesús Sánchez really stepped up, and both the team and fans are seeing it. Once considered “just a platoon player,” he has started off 2022 quite well. Through Sunday’s game Sanchez has 18 hits—two doubles, two triples, and three home runs. He has nine runs scored as well as nine RBI. He’s done this while hitting .310 and batting mostly in the clean-up spot.
Change of Scenery
The Tampa Bay Rays sent Sánchez and reliever Ryne Stanek to the Marlins for Trevor Richards and Nick Anderson in 2019. At the time of the trade, he was having a subpar season at Triple-A Durham. However, the Marlins saw him as an everyday player who was once regarded as high as a number six prospect in the Rays’ organization due to his unique blend of power and speed. The Marlins hoped with a change of scenery Sánchez could develop into the promise of that “top prospect” label.
Career as a Marlin
After a miserable major league debut in 2020—he had only one hit in 25 at-bats with 11 strikeouts in ten games. Sánchez responded with a very encouraging 2021. He started that season at Triple A- Jacksonville, but was called up on June 16 due to an injury to Corey Dickerson. He ended the season being a regular starter after. In what was considered a surprise move, the Marlins decided to trade Dickerson. The club wanted to continue giving Sánchez consistent playing time to evaluate him. It looked like he had finally arrived to stay in the big-leagues. It seemed to be the vote of confidence Sánchez needed. He ended the season playing in 64 games and hit 14 home runs in 227 at-bats.
Move to Center in 2022
Sánchez played primarily right field with some time in left mixed in the 2021 season. After the Marlins signed a pair of corner outfielders, Avisaíl García and Jorge Soler, to boost their offense, however, he was moved to center during spring training in 2022. The Marlins coaches knew with his speed and his throwing arm he would excel at that position.
Even though it is early in the 2022 season, it appears the move has paid off well. Through this past Sunday, Sánchez has no errors.
His Potential
Miami Marlins outfielder Jesús Sánchez stepped up, but also has the potential to be a leader on this team. While he has some flaws, for example, swinging at bad pitches out of the strike zone and not taking pitches, he has worked hard with hitting coaches Marcus Thames and Edwar Gonzalez on his approach.
The Marlins don’t question his power will be there. What they wonder is if he can cut down on the strikeouts and hit for a higher average. They are working with him on being more self-confident at the plate. His stats look good so far.
What Should Help
Not only has Miami Marlins outfielder Jesús Sánchez stepped up, but having a lineup with first baseman Jesus Aguilar, shortstop Jazz Chisholm Jr., right fielder Avisail Garcia, and left fielder Jorge Soler helps as well. If pitchers decide to pitch around any of those guys and Sánchez comes up with them on, they will have to throw their best stuff to him. One wrong move and Sánchez could make them pay with an extra-base hit or a home run.
The 2022 season will be a vital one for the Miami Marlins as, yes once again, they retool and rebuild. Jesús Sánchez wants to be a big part of it for the long-term.
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