Apparently, putting together a ‘Dream Team’ has become the latest trend, roughly akin to the latest technological device. And like that new technology, it hasn’t worked out as expected.
Remember when the Miami Heat rolled out the first ‘Dream Team’ and how everyone anointed them as the NBA Champions before a single game had been played? Remember how LeBron demonstrated that he could count to seven as though he was the NBA version of The Count from Sesame Street when discussing how many championships they would win? Or remember how the Philadelphia Eagles were thought to be the future Super Bowl Champions and the regular season was merely a formality? Yeah, how well did that work out for either team?
Now the Miami Marlins are ignoring the lessons of history. And not distant history, such as when military leaders manage to forget that attacking Russia in the winter is a bad idea. This is recent history; in fact, it’s history in their own city. Obviously foresight and recognition of a problem are not amongst the strengths of the Marlins front office.
To further this point, look at the acquisitions they have made and the players they have been linked to. Already, they have signed Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle, and Heath Bell. They have been linked to C.J. Wilson, Albert Pujols, and Prince Fielder. Now, look at the roster that they are returning. Of the problems the Marlins had, shortstop and first base were not amongst those. Yes, they needed some help in the rotation and Buehrle fits that role, but does anyone really think that C.J. Wilson is truly worth ace money, especially when they already have Josh Johnson? Ridiculous.
Then there is the insanity that was the Jose Reyes signing. They already had an All-Star caliber shortstop in Hanley Ramirez. So why spend a ludicrous amount of money on a shortstop that can never stay healthy? Especially one with a history of leg, knee, and ankle injuries, whose best asset just so happens to be speed? Did they really expect Ramirez to be ok with the move, and quietly slide over the third base? Guess they completely botched their appraisal of that situation.
Meanwhile, the two most glaring holes on their roster have yet to actually be addressed. The primary third basemen for the Marlins hit a total of eight home runs last year. Eight. The had a center field combo that involved Emilio Bonifacio and Chris Coghlan. But obviously, those positions should not be a priority in free agency, when the team is opening it’s checkbook for the first time since 1997.
Sadly, there are free agents available that would have helped the Marlins in those very spots. Aramis Ramirez comes to mind. His bat in the middle of that lineup would make the Marlins rather formidable. Center field would be a bit harder to fill, but David DeJesus would have been a nice addition and can play a bit of center. Of the remaining free agents, Coco Crisp would be a solid signing, and probably would not cost a lot. This would allow the Marlins to spend money locking up their own talented young players. Instead, they will have a total of six players under contract in 2013. Six. Guess they didn’t get the memo that they are not playing fantasy baseball down there.
Like the other ‘Dream Teams’, this one will fail to meet expectations. Expect the Marlins to miss the playoffs, and unless Ozzie Guillen works more of his magic, they will finish below .500.
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