The Empty Hot Corner

The Marlins have signed some options for the gaping hole on the left corner formerly occupied by Miguel Cabrera. First, they signed Jose Castillo of former Pirates fame and recently they have added Jorge Cantu to the mix as well.

Castillo is a career .256 hitter in 4 seasons with Pittsburgh. Early on his career he looked like a potential longterm middle infielder but his production has dropped off ever since leading to a .244 average in limited use during the 2007 season. Castillo played the majority of his games at 2nd base for the Pirates but he does have some experience at the hot corner which is where the Marlins will place him. One option would be to move Dan Uggla to 3rd and use Castillo at 2nd but reports thus far have stated the fish will not go that route.

Cantu played the majority of his career of 4 seasons in Tampa before being dealt to the Reds in 2007. He is a career .273 hitter with his best season coming in 2005 with the Rays when he hit .286 with 28 home runs and 117 runs driven in. Ever since that ‘05 season, Cantu has struggled to produce at the plate.

Castillo and Cantu will both be given a chance to win the starting job in Spring Training, and it is likely both will make the team regardless in some capacity. The Marlins also to continue to look for other options for their depleted left corner of the infield.