Fishtales: The Complete (re)History of the Florida Marlins

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FISH FRY: THE COMPLETE 1993 SEASON PREVIEW FOR THE FISH
By: Michael R. Castillo

The Florida Marlins, South Florida’s newest sports franchise, are set to make history as they gear up for their inaugural season in Major League Baseball. With Opening Day just a month away, fans across the region are eager to see how this fresh roster will stack up against the established National League East powerhouses.

The Roster: A Mix of Veterans and New Talent
Leading the Marlins into their debut season is Charlie Hough, a 45-year-old knuckleballer and baseball veteran who will anchor the rotation. Hough brings decades of experience to a young franchise looking for stability on the mound. He’s joined in the rotation by promising arms such as Chris Hammond, Jack Armstrong, and Pat Rapp, while David Weathers rounds out the starting five.

In the bullpen, closer Bryan Harvey is expected to be a cornerstone. Known for his effectiveness with the California Angels, Harvey will look to slam the door on opposing teams. Supporting him are relievers like Cris Carpenter, Trevor Hoffman, and Richie Lewis, who will need to provide consistency in tight games.

The Lineup: Speed, Power, and Potential
At the plate, the Marlins feature a dynamic group of players. Chuck Carr is slated to lead off, bringing speed and defensive prowess in center field. The versatile Dave Magadan will anchor third base, while Jeff Conine, affectionately nicknamed "Mr. Marlin," will patrol left field.

Power hitters such as Orestes Destrade, a standout from his days in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball, and Benito Santiago, a Gold Glove-winning catcher, will be key to driving in runs. Veteran shortstop Walt Weiss and second baseman Bret Barberie round out the infield, providing defensive reliability and experience.

Top Prospects: Hope for the Future
The Marlins' farm system is already generating excitement, led by top prospects like Carl Everett, an outfielder with power and speed, and catcher Charles Johnson, who is regarded as one of the best young backstops in the minors. Shortstop Edgar Rentería, at just 16 years old, is another name to watch as the team builds for the future.

The Challenge Ahead
The Marlins face a tough National League East that includes stalwarts like the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, and St. Louis Cardinals. Competing in their first season will require more than raw talent—it will take resilience and the ability to gel as a team.

Manager Rene Lachemann will play a pivotal role in guiding the squad, relying on his years of experience in professional baseball. His leadership will be critical in helping the Marlins establish their identity and compete on a nightly basis.

Excitement in South Florida
As the Marlins prepare for their first spring training games, excitement is palpable throughout the region. Joe Robbie Stadium, the team’s home, is being transformed into a baseball haven, and fans are eager to see history unfold when the team takes the field on April 5 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

For South Florida sports enthusiasts, the arrival of the Florida Marlins is more than just a new team—it’s the start of a new era. Whether they contend immediately or endure growing pains, one thing is certain: the Marlins are here, and baseball has officially arrived in Miami.

Projected Opening Day Lineup
Chuck Carr (CF)
Dave Magadan (3B)
Jeff Conine (LF)
Geronimo Berroa (RF)
Orestes Destrade (1B)
Benito Santiago (C)
Walt Weiss (SS)
Bret Barberie (2B)
Rotation:

Charlie Hough
Chris Hammond
Jack Armstrong
Pat Rapp
David Weathers
Closer: Bryan Harvey

MIAMI MONEY: FINANCING THE FISH ISN'T CHEAP
By: Michael R. Castillo

As the Florida Marlins prepare for their inaugural season, much of the buzz in South Florida has been focused on the players, the games, and the excitement of Major League Baseball finally arriving in Miami. But behind the scenes, the financial blueprint for the Marlins' success is just as intriguing.

A Modest Beginning
Ranked 26th in both overall budget and player payroll, the Marlins are operating with a decidedly small-market mindset. With a 1993 budget of $15.6 million and a player payroll of just $9.38 million, the team is taking a conservative approach to its finances, focusing on measured growth rather than splashy spending.

Market size is a key factor in the Marlins’ strategy. As a team in a “small” market, the Marlins are relying on a combination of average fan loyalty and a fan interest rating of 41 to build a stable foundation. It’s a slow-and-steady approach aimed at ensuring financial stability in their formative years.

The Numbers That Matter
The Marlins are projected to bring in $15.56 million in revenue in 1993, thanks in large part to strong season ticket revenue ($6.13 million) and gate revenue ($7.5 million). Local and national media deals are expected to add another $1.61 million, while merchandise sales could contribute $311,364.

Ticket prices, set at $7.40 on average, are in line with other small-market teams and should attract a healthy mix of fans to Joe Robbie Stadium. With a stadium capacity of 47,662, the Marlins are optimistic about filling seats as fans flock to see their new team.

Balancing the Books
Despite the conservative payroll, the Marlins face significant expenses. Staff payroll ($1.06 million), development budgets ($1.18 million), and draft expenditures ($3.81 million) show the team is investing heavily in scouting and player development—key to building a competitive team in the long term.

Interestingly, the Marlins still have $427,330 available for free agents and $3.49 million allocated for extensions, giving them flexibility to make midseason moves or secure long-term deals with promising players.

The Challenge of Being a Small-Market Team
The financial realities of being a small-market team are apparent. With limited resources, the Marlins will need to make every dollar count. Team focus is described as “neutral,” which suggests a balanced approach to competing today while planning for the future.

Attendance will play a critical role in the Marlins' financial success. The team hopes to eclipse the 1.84 million total attendance seen by small-market teams in 1992. With affordable ticket prices and the novelty of a new team, there’s hope that South Florida will rally behind the Marlins.

Looking Ahead
While the Marlins’ financial approach may not lead to immediate dominance on the field, their emphasis on careful spending and player development bodes well for the long term. By building a strong foundation now, the Marlins have a real shot at becoming a competitive franchise in the years to come.

For South Florida fans, the message is clear: this is the start of something special. With a smart financial plan and a dedicated ownership group, the Marlins are poised to grow into a team that will make Miami proud—both on and off the field.

The countdown to Opening Day is on, and the Marlins are ready to make their splash!

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1993

Marlins Historic First Game Ever vs. Dodgers
Sunday April 4th - Saturday April10th
Sunday April 11th - Thursday April 15th
Friday April 16 - Thursday April 22nd

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RESERVED FOR LEAGUE SEASON REVIEWS AND STATS

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RESERVED FOR SOMETHING ELSE I FORGOT

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RESERVED BECAUSE I'LL WANT ONE MORE

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Commentary by Peter Gammons, Baseball Tonight

BASEBALL'S NEW CROP IS BETTER THAN EVER
April 5, 1993

Alright folks, the season is about to get underway, and as always, the Baseball News Network has dropped their annual Top 100 Prospects list. And for the second year in a row, the top spot belongs to a shortstop. But this time, it's not Alex Rodriguez, it's the Atlanta Braves' Chipper Jones.

Now, Chipper is a switch-hitter with a cannon for an arm and some serious pop in his bat. He's got all the tools to be a superstar, and the Braves have to be thrilled to have him.

Joining Chipper in the top 10 are some familiar names and a few new faces. Carlos Delgado and Manny Ramirez are back from last year's list, and we've got some exciting young talent like Jason Giambi, Jorge Posada, and Jim Edmonds.

And let's not forget about the Yankees. They've got two players in the top 10 with Andy Pettitte and Derek Jeter. Jeter, at just 18 years old, is the youngest player on the list. Now, that's a name to watch.

So there you have it, folks. The BNN Top 100 Prospects list is out, and it's full of exciting young talent. We'll be keeping a close eye on these guys throughout the season and seeing who can live up to the hype.

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Marlins Fall to Dodgers in Historic Opener
By Dan Reynolds, Miami Herald

MIAMI — The Florida Marlins’ highly anticipated inaugural game ended in disappointment Monday, as the Los Angeles Dodgers spoiled the celebration with a 4-1 victory at Sun Life Stadium.

Despite the loss, the sold-out crowd of 27,423 created a buzzing atmosphere, marking the dawn of Major League Baseball in Miami. The Marlins, led by manager Rene Lachemann, showed flashes of promise but couldn’t overcome a dominant performance by Dodgers starter Tom Candiotti.

Candiotti, known for his knuckleball, kept the Marlins’ bats quiet throughout the afternoon. The veteran right-hander pitched eight innings, allowing just one run on five hits while striking out eight to earn the win. His only blemish came in the third inning when Jeff Conine doubled and eventually scored on a sacrifice fly by Walt Weiss, giving the Marlins a brief 1-0 lead.

“Candiotti was tough to hit today,” said Lachemann. “We had some chances, but he executed when it mattered most.”

The Dodgers quickly responded in the sixth inning. Cory Snyder’s two-run single off Marlins starter Charlie Hough turned the tide, putting Los Angeles ahead 2-1. Snyder’s clutch hit was the turning point in a game that had been a pitching duel up to that moment.

“It was just a matter of executing,” said Dodgers manager Tom Lasorda. “Snyder came through in the big spot.”

Tim Wallach added insurance for Los Angeles in the ninth with a two-run home run off reliever Richie Lewis, sealing the Dodgers’ victory.

The Marlins’ 45-year-old starter Charlie Hough, who fittingly threw the first pitch in franchise history, battled valiantly but ran out of steam in the sixth inning. Hough gave up two runs on four hits in six innings, striking out three and walking two.

“It’s an honor to be part of this moment, but I wish we could have gotten the win,” said Hough. “We’ll regroup and come back stronger.”

Despite the loss, there were bright spots for Florida. Conine, nicknamed “The Barbarian,” recorded two hits, including the franchise’s first extra-base hit, and outfielder Chuck Carr displayed his speed with two stolen bases.

The Marlins’ inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was a recurring theme, as they left nine runners on base. A standout defensive play in the fourth inning by catcher Mike Piazza—turning a 2-6-3 double play—kept Florida from gaining any momentum.

“This is just the beginning,” said Lachemann. “It’s a long season, and we’re excited about what’s to come.”

The Marlins will look to notch their first win on Tuesday when they continue their three-game series against the Dodgers. For fans in Miami, the magic of Opening Day, even in defeat, signals the arrival of big-league baseball—and a bright future ahead.

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WEEK OF SUNDAY APRIL 4TH - SATURDAY APRIL 10TH

ROSTER MOVES THIS WEEK

Roster Moves This Week:

04.07.93 - Charles Johnson was called up from AAA. This is the first call up for the highly touted rookie from Florida.

04.07.93 - Steve Decker was put on waivers and recalled to AAA. During Waiver period, was claimed by Boston.


Marlins Split Series with Dodgers and Padres, Johnson Makes Major League Debut

Miami, Florida – The Florida Marlins finished a busy week with a split of their four-game series against the San Diego Padres, bringing their record to 3-4 on the young season. The week began with a pair of thrilling victories over the Los Angeles Dodgers, including a walk-off win in extra innings.

Johnson Promoted, Decker Designated for Assignment

The biggest news of the week came on Monday when the Marlins promoted promising young catcher Charles Johnson from Triple-A. Johnson, known for his strong arm and improving bat, was immediately inserted into the starting lineup. His presence in the lineup is sure to give the Marlins a defensive boost.

To make room for Johnson on the roster, veteran catcher Steve Decker was designated for assignment. Decker, who had struggled at the plate, was later claimed off waivers by the Boston Red Sox.

Dodgers Series

The Marlins opened the week with a pair of exciting victories over the Dodgers. On Monday, the Marlins rallied late to defeat the Dodgers 7-2. The Dodgers jumped out to an early lead, but the Marlins chipped away at the deficit with a pair of runs in the sixth inning and a three-run seventh.

On Tuesday, the Marlins and Dodgers engaged in a back-and-forth battle that went into extra innings. The Dodgers took a 4-3 lead in the top of the tenth, but the Marlins responded with a run in the bottom half to tie the game. In the eleventh, the Marlins walked off with a 7-4 victory.

Padres Series

The Marlins split their four-game series with the Padres, winning the first two games before dropping the final two. On Thursday, the Marlins scored a thrilling walk-off victory over the Padres, 5-4. The Padres took a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the ninth, but the Marlins responded with a pair of runs in the bottom half to win the game.

On Friday, the Padres evened the series with a 9-4 victory. The Marlins were never able to get their offense going against the Padres' pitching staff.

Looking Ahead

The Marlins will now wrap up their series with the Padres on Sunday and head to San Francisco for three games with the Giants.