Potential Breakout Stars of 2018: NL East
By Will Patrone
Miami Marlins: Jose Ureña
The Miami Marlins are currently a mess. The future of most players on their team is extremely uncertain going into 2018. Their four best players could feasibly be shipped to various teams for prospects. The departure of Miami’s stars leaves the door open for someone to step up in their absence. Enter Jose Ureña.
The Marlins have not had a truly dependable pitcher since Jose Fernandez’s death a little over a year ago. As Miami begins to rebuild into a new era, it becomes critical for the current players to establish themselves as core pieces for the future. Ureña has done that in 2017 and has a chance to garner national attention this upcoming season.
With the cluster of players that currently reside in the Marlins rotation options for 2018, Ureña is one of two that have secured spots for Opening Day, the other being Dan Straily. Wei-Yin Chen, who was expected to bring a solid left-handed arm for the rotation, was demoted to the bullpen last season after returning from injury. Edison Volquez had Tommy-John surgery in early August. Each player is scheduled to make $18 million and $13 million respectively next season, which provides a challenge for the Miami franchise looking to immensely cut their payroll for 2018.
After recording a 14-7 record with a 3.82 ERA in 2017, Ureña has shown that he has the potential to be a breakout candidate for 2018.