NL East spring training update

Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Miami Marlins

Jose Fernandez continues to impress just as he did in his rookie season.  He has not allowed a run in 5.1 innings of work thus far and looks to be a solid ace for the Marlins this season.  Giancarlo Stanton is also on a tear with a .375 batting average and five home runs.  Those won’t count for his regular season stats, but it is a good sign for Miami as it appears to be in a rebuilding phase.

Rebuilding doesn’t usually include counting on an aging veteran to fill a void in the offense.  The Marlins may have signed Rafael Furcal more for his ability to draw fans because of his Hispanic background, as his best days are far behind him.  The shortstop turned second baseman is hitting a mere .125 and may be designated to a reserve role if Miami decides to go with a younger starting lineup built for the future.