Prominent Analyst Gives Mixed Review of Marlins’ Shortstop Prospect
The Miami Marlins are entering the offseason with optimism after a successful 2025 season. The team not only showed improvement on the field but also made significant strides in their farm system. Among the prospects making waves is shortstop Starlyn Caba, who is gaining attention in the Arizona Fall League.
Starlyn Caba’s Rising Potential
Starlyn Caba’s journey through the Marlins’ system is noteworthy. After being a key player in the trade with the Philadelphia Phillies involving Jesús Luzardo, Caba has become a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Despite his current success, he faces challenges ahead.
Defensive Skills Shine Bright
Keith Law, a prominent analyst from The Athletic, recently provided a comprehensive review of Caba. He ranked Caba as the No. 5 prospect in the Marlins’ organization, noting Caba’s exceptional defensive capabilities.
- Caba is praised for his defensive consistency, reminiscent of Jose Iglesias.
- He exhibits outstanding range and instincts on the field.
- Law pointed out that Caba’s defensive skills alone could make him a valuable Major League player.
Offensive Concerns
While his defense is commendable, Caba’s offensive performance remains inconsistent. Law expressed concerns regarding Caba’s size, which is listed at 5’9″ and 160 pounds. The analyst mentioned that despite Caba’s promising understanding of the strike zone, his power hitting is still questionable.
- Caba has the potential to improve but must demonstrate greater hitting ability.
- His strength and ability to handle velocity on the mound will be crucial for future success.
- With time, Caba may develop into a replacement-level hitter, which would complement his defensive strengths.
Current Performance in the Arizona Fall League
Recently, Caba achieved a milestone by hitting his first home run in the Arizona Fall League. Thus far, his offensive stats in the league include a .276 batting average, a .400 on-base percentage, and a .414 slugging percentage.
While these numbers reflect a positive showcase, consistency is vital. The Marlins need Caba to solidify his performance across the minor leagues. Developing into a reliable player could prove essential for the franchise’s future success.
As Starlyn Caba approaches his 20th birthday in December, the expectations for growth and improvement remain high. If he can enhance his power and maintain his defensive prowess, he may become a significant asset for the Miami Marlins moving forward.
