Fish On First: A Miami Marlins podcast

Monday night, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred announced that the club owners "unanimously voted to proceed with the 2020 season under the terms of the March 26th agreement." Translation: play ball! We are still awaiting full details about the unorthodox competition and safety rules that will be implemented. Also, let's not be naive—the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic could derail everything. In the meantime, Ely shares some general thoughts on what this means for the Marlins (3:40), then answers various fan questions submitted via Twitter (14:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Marlins took an unorthodox approach to the abbreviated 2020 MLB Draft, exclusively pitchers. On Earning Their Stripes, Spencer Morris, Ian Smith, Ethan Budowsky and Ely Sussman have the full breakdown for you. Scouting reports on Max Meyer, Dax Fulton, Kyle Nicolas, Zach McCambley, Jake Eder and Kyle Hurt, plus looking forward to the undrafted free agent signing period. Enjoy! Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Spencer (@ProspectSpencer), Ian (@FlaSmitty), Ethan (@GatorBait_Ethan) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely and Alex applaud the Marlins for committing to pay all their prospects through the summer and vent about the ongoing MLB/MLBPA negotiations. Inspired by a tweet, they fill out two full lineups of notable players who came and went after only a single season in South Florida. Pudge Rodríguez! Carlos Delgado! Homer Bush?! Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Alex (@TheRealACoN) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely and Spencer discuss possible Marlins first-round draft pick LHP Asa Lacy and why this year's unusual circumstances could push them to explore outside-the-box alternatives like prep OF Zac Veen (2:00). During a recent interview, RHP Nick Neidert made some fascinating comments about his curveball development and the state of the Marlins rebuild (22:30). Plus, there are "underdogs" in Miami's farm system who we believe could carve out substantial MLB careers someday, including RHP Sterling Sharp, OF Diowill Burgos, LHP Daniel Castano and OF Thomas Jones (33:30). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Spencer (@ProspectSpencer) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Smith and Luis Davila are joined by Baseball America national writer Carlos Collazo! A returning guest to ETS, Carlos dissects the top prospects who'll be available with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft and the many consequences of the league shortening the draft in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Only 160 total players will be selected this year (instead of the usual 1,200-plus), dramatically inflating the undrafted free agent talent pool. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Carlos (@CarlosACollazo), Ian (@FlaSmitty) and Luis (@luisrdavila) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Marlins Games of the Decade article series on Fish Stripes concludes this week. Full local television broadcasts of these special games from the 2010-2019 seasons are available on the website. But Ely is presenting them in an alternate format here on the pod, by selecting play-by-play calls of each game's pivotal moment (highly recommend using normal playback speed for the best possible listening experience). Hopefully, next decade proves to be even more thrilling and fulfilling! Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely and Alex Contreras share their optimism about a potential 2020 MLB season and their admiration for how the Marlins have handled the COVID-19 pandemic. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Alex (@TheRealACoN) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely is joined by Alex Contreras, Anthony "Red" Garcia, Alex Krutchik and Tyler Wilson to go through the entire 2020 Marlins Hall of Fame ballot. From dominant hitters like Miguel Cabrera and Gary Sheffield (3:00) and beloved aces José Fernández and Dontrelle Willis (21:20) to Marlins figures who made their impact off the field (39:30). Fan balloting is open now through April 19!Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Alex C. (@TheRealACoN), Anthony (@FishnGifs), Alex K. (@AlexKrutchikFS), Tyler (@KingOfBuffalo) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MLB owners ratified an agreement Friday that details how to proceed with the 2020 MLB season under these difficult circumstances. Ely explains how the Marlins would be affected by expanded active rosters (12:45), lost revenue from television and sponsors (19:25), service time adjustments (28:00) and much more. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fish Stripes staff is updating their top prospects list again, and for the first time, Marlins fans can go behind the scenes and hear what goes into that process. This first half of the conference call focuses on the upper half of the Top 30 list. Players discussed in the greatest detail include RHP Sixto Sánchez, SS Jazz Chisholm, RHP Edward Cabrera, OF Jesús Sánchez, 1B Lewin Díaz, OF Jerar Encarnación and OF Kameron Misner. Follow Ethan Budowsky (@GatorBait_Ethan), Luis Davila (@luisrdavi), Spencer Morris (@ProspectSpencer), Ian Smith (@FlaSmitty), Ely Sussman (@RealEly) and Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fish Stripes staff is updating their top prospects list again, and for the first time, Marlins fans can go behind the scenes and hear what goes into that process. This second half of the conference call focuses on the bottom half of the Top 30 list and honorable mentions. Players discussed in the greatest detail include SS José Salas, RHP Evan Fitterer, SS Osiris Johnson, LHP Alex Vesia, RHP Jordan Holloway and C Will Banfield.Follow Ethan Budowsky (@GatorBait_Ethan), Luis Davila (@luisrdavi), Spencer Morris (@ProspectSpencer), Ian Smith (@FlaSmitty), Ely Sussman (@RealEly) and Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Entering what should have been MLB Opening Week, Marlins baseball is still nowhere in sight. Ely looks at how several veteran players on the team historically perform in March/April/May of a typical season (2:35), and how to adjust expectations for them considering that the 2020 season won't include those months. On Twitter and Instagram, Fish Stripes asked which Marlins players—past or present—would make the best (and worst) quarantine partners (20:50). We read many of your responses on air. Stick around for Ely's picks at the 36:30 mark! Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even though meaningful MLB games are seemingly months away, an excellent Spring Training for the Marlins should not be forgotten. Ely takes note of the individual players who—for better or worse—made the strongest impressions (6:00), including Lewis Brinson, Jazz Chisholm and Alex Vesia. He also provides a brief introduction to the Marlins Games of the Decade series (28:45), which will be debuting on Fish Stripes this week and continue indefinitely. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With only two weeks until the 2020 Marlins regular season arrives, Ely summarizes the first round of Spring Training cuts (2:35), the consequences of no longer having The Clevelander at the ballpark (5:55) and what to take away from the huge Christian Yelich contract extension (10:10). Our Game of the Week was Friday night’s comeback win over the Nationals (14:40). Great guest on this episode: Mark Simon of Sports Info Solutions (28:45). He describes how Brian Anderson became a valuable fielder at multiple positions (33:45) and where Jorge Alfaro must improve to truly fill J.T. Realmuto’s shoes (43:30). Mark even provides a sneak peek at what to expect from top prospect Jazz Chisholm defensively (53:00). Follow Mark (@MarkASimonSays), Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More so than at any other time in recent memory, the Marlins organization is loaded with depth and high-end talent. But for these young players to make it to The Show and stick there, they must further develop their skill sets, succeed on the field, and then adjust again while ascending the minor league ladder. It’s an ongoing battle with opposing teams, your own teammates and your own body and mind. Every day is a competition for Marlins prospects, all part of the process of...Earning Their Stripes!Kicking off our second season of ETS, Ely is joined by Ethan Budowsky and Spencer Morris to react to the latest wave of Marlins top prospect lists released by MLB Pipeline, The Athletic and Fish On The Farm. Featured players include LHP Braxton Garrett, OF Monte Harrison, OF Peyton Burdick, OF Víctor Mesa Jr. and OF Víctor Víctor Mesa, RHP Sixto Sánchez, SS Jazz Chisholm and more. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Ethan (@GatorBait_Ethan), Spencer (@ProspectSpencer) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full prospects coverage at FishStripes.com/prospects. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely brings you more coverage of the Grapefruit League-leading Miami Marlins, beginning with a summary of their Game of the Week (3:00). Then, a whip-around of the rest of the NL East division, with individual segments previewing the Atlanta Braves (14:45), New York Mets (21:40), Philadelphia Phillies (32:40) and Washington Nationals (44:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a dream start to the Grapefruit League for the Marlins, defeating both the Mets and Nationals thanks to Monte Harrison, Jazz Chisholm and Co. Ely shares all of his observations from Saturday's spring opener (2:47) and identifies the 2020 debuts that he's most looking forward to witnessing this upcoming week (23:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring Training full-squad workouts have begun! Ely identifies the Marlins players who have the most to gain/lose between now and the regular season, most notably Lewis Brinson, Jesús Aguilar and Magneuris Sierra.Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely discusses the competition for the final two spots in the Marlins starting rotation (2:45), then is joined by Anthony Garcia for a play-by-play report from Saturday's Marlins FanFest (14:00). Attendance for the event was announced as 17,000, up from 12,000 the previous year. Stick around for interviews with manager Don Mattingly (36:00) and shortstop prospect Jazz Chisholm (46:15). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Anthony (@Redd_garcia/@FishnGifs) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely reacts to Monday's Marlins roster moves, which completed the Matt Joyce and Brandon Kintzler signings at the expense of Jarlin García and José Quijada. Two more players "inherited" from old ownership are now headed out the door, which begs the question: Who has survived the transition? The final segment of this episode identifies the few veterans and key prospects originally acquired under Jeffrey Loria's regime, and what it says about how the team-building philosophy has shifted.Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MLB Opening Day can't get here soon enough. The Marlins, one move at a time, have assembled—by far—their most intriguing roster since this rebuild began. Ely rejoices over the pick-up of veteran right-hander Brandon Kintzler (1:10), checks in on some "old friends" remaining on the free agent market like Henderson Alvarez and David Phelps (17:45) and cautions fans not to overreact to preseason Top 100 prospects list, even those from the most revered outlets (38:10). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Marlins continue to tinker with the edges of their 40-man roster. Ely reacts to the Austin Dean-Diowill Burgos trade (2:30), the James Tarpley-James Nelson trade (7:10) and the annual hitters camp in Jupiter (15:50). The rest of the episode browses through about 20 important dates during the 2020 calendar year that will influence how the Marlins manage their young talent and approach decisions about their future (21:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the 2020 season debut of Earning Their Stripes, our show specializing in minor league coverage. Special guest Marlins left-hander Braxton Garrett reflects on his impressive 2019 campaign with the High-A Jupiter Hammerheads, shares some of the secrets behind his signature curveball and explains his reasons for being optimistic about the direction of the franchise. Follow Braxton Garrett (@BraxGarrett), Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trades! Not very impactful ones, though. Ely provides the Marlins' perspective regarding last week's Kyle Keller/José Estrada and Austin Brice/Angeudis Santos swaps (2:15), pays homage to recently DFA'd Austin Dean, who was drafted and developed by the organization (16:45), and insists that savings from the 2020 arbitration class should be applied to improving the bullpen (27:45). Brandon Kintzler, Jeremy Jeffress and Shawn Kelley are among the available relievers who make sense for the Fish. Finally, take a listen to Danny Martinez's new YouTube show, "Marlins Unfiltered" (49:30). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey, Marlins fans! On this episode of Fish Bites, Ely Sussman reacts to Starlin Castro signing with the NL East rival Washington Nationals (5:45), switch-pitcher Pat Venditte getting a shot to earn a bullpen spot (16:20) and Lewis Brinson winning a home run derby in the Bahamas (33:50). This Marlins offseason has garnered positive reviews from the fanbase and all across the baseball industry, so let's give credit where credit is due. President of baseball operations Michael Hill ought to be an extension candidate heading into the final year of his contract (48:20). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All month, we have been anticipating that the Marlins would add a reliable outfield bat. They finally took the plunge on Saturday (pending a physical), signing free agent Corey Dickerson for two years and $17.5 million. What is his plate approach? Can he handle left-handed pitching? How did he win a 2018 NL Gold Glove award? And what does this mean for the rest of Miami's defensive alignment? Ely details Dickerson's full career path and skill set. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our second-to-last podcast episode of 2019, Ely provides stats, biographical information and anticipated fit on the Marlins roster for each of the following minor league signings: Santiago Chávez (6:15), Gosuke Katoh (8:45), Ryan Lavarnway (12:55), Christian Lopes (16:00), BJ López (18:15), Matt Kemp (20:20), Brian Navarreto (27:10), Aaron Northcraft (31:45) and Josh A. Smith (35:05). With these new faces in mind, how will the Fish fill out their 26-man roster heading into Opening Day? We take an educated guess. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Smith conducts an exclusive interview with Marlins LHP Alex Vesia. The former 17th-round draft pick struck out 100 batters in just 66 2/3 innings pitched during his first full professional season, ascending all the way up to Double-A Jacksonville. Vesia reminisces about dominating the Arizona Fall League, becoming an unlikely walk-off hero and more. Follow Alex (@Alex_Vesia) Ian (@FlaSmitty) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Marlins kept busy during the MLB Winter Meetings, adding a pair of right-handers into their 2020 bullpen mix and engaging agents and other teams regarding experienced outfielders. Aram Leighton brings on Wells Dusenbury, Marlins beat reporter for the Sun Sentinel, to analyze it all (2:30). Then, Ely reads aloud the responses from fans on Twitter who were asked to grade Miami's offseason transactions thus far (39:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Wells (@DuseReport), Aram (@AramLeighton8) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should Marlins fans expect from new acquisitions Jesús Aguilar and Jonathan Villar? Ely weighs in on both the hefty first baseman (3:10) and the versatile, top-of-the-order sparkplug (14:35). These additions forced the Fish to part ways with JT Riddle (30:50) and Tayron Guerrero (32:50), neither of whom realized their full potential in recent seasons. As the Winter Meetings get underway in San Diego, the Marlins should be shopping for experienced relievers and outfield help (48:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should the Marlins do with José Ureña, Adam Conley and JT Riddle prior to Monday night's non-tender deadline? Ely reviews their "platform year" performance from 2019 and makes recommendations to the front office (1;15). Then, Daniel De Vivo debuts on Fish Bites to share his updated Marlins top prospects list (33:00) and thoughts on the contentious MLB/MiLB negotiations over the Professional Baseball Agreement (51:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Daniel (@DanielDeVivo) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Wei-Yin Chen finally purged from the Marlins roster, Ely reflects on his complicated tenure with the team (4:35) and what it means for future free agent pursuits (9:40). Aram Leighton makes his return to Fish Bites (11:30), conducting an exclusive interview with Blue Jays outfield prospect Griffin Conine (that's right, Jeff's son!). The 2019 Midwest League home run champion looks forward to his first full pro season, details his rollercoaster collegiate career and shares memories of growing up among major leaguers. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Griffin (@Griffin_Co9), Aram (@AramLeighton8) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Making his Earning Their Stripes debut, Spencer Morris joins Ethan and Ian to preview all of the key decisions facing the Marlins this offseason. The guys react to the Triple-A Wichita affiliate rebrand (2:25), identify key prospects who ought to be added to the 40-man roster to protect from Rule 5 Draft eligibility (4:20), shop for free agents to provide a boost to the major league lineup (13:00), and suggest a variety of trade targets from potential franchise cornerstones—Francisco Lindor and Mookie Betts—to intriguing role players (24:10). Follow Ethan (@GatorBait_Ethan), Ian (@FlaSmitty) and Spencer (@Spencer_711) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely rounds up the week's Marlins developments (1:55), including rumors linking the team to top free agent outfielders and great player performances in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Then, enjoy an excerpt from Ethan Budowsky's guest appearance on the Painting Corners Podcast (10:15). Ethan details how the key rebuilding trades have panned out on the field so far and what fans are expecting in 2020 and beyond. (Subscribe to Painting Corners Podcast for the full interview.) Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Ethan (@GatorBait_Ethan) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Fish Stripes contributor LJ Garcia joins Ely (0:45) to explain how he would approach the 2019-20 offseason, and to discuss the recent news of Don Mattingly's Hall of Fame candidacy and Martín Prado's pending retirement. Closing in on the final holiday season of the 2010's, we reflect on what the Marlins accomplished (and failed to accomplish) during this decade. Ely creates a quiz (37:20) about the team's statistical leaders in various categories. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Lino (@LJGarcia_fs) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Marlins should be aiming for a 15-win improvement from last season, but they can't mortgage the future to do it. Ely attempts to thread the needle with carefully thought out 40-man roster maneuvers (6:00) and a handful of efficient free agent signings and trades (19:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time in more than a decade, Major League Baseball's World Series champion hails from the NL East division. Congrats to the Washington Nationals on their 2019 title. On this episode, Ely identifies key individuals on the team who have Marlins connections (1:55) and reminds you that the MLB postseason can be an unpredictable crapshoot.FOX Sports Florida's Kelly Saco joins the show for a fun, fascinating interview about her Miami upbringing and career progress (16:50). A Suncoast Regional Emmy nominee for her television reporting this season, Saco also became the first woman to ever work as an analyst on a Marlins radio broadcast.Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Kelly (@KellySaco) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Salt River Rafters, featuring Marlins prospects Jerar Encarnación, Nick Neidert and Alex Vesia, clinched the 2019 Arizona Fall League championship on Saturday! On this new episode of Fish Bites, Ely analyzes their AFL production (2:48) and explains why the hiring of James Rowson as bench coach/offensive coordinator could have huge ramifications (14:10). The Ultimate Marlins Depth Charts series continues with a roundup of all the key catchers and first basemen within the organization (24:40). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely updates you on the 2019 MLB postseason (1:58), specifically the Marlins connections on the rosters of both the advancing and eliminated teams. With Giancarlo Stanton entering his 30s and Marcell Ozuna entering free agency, we revisit the decisions to trade them away and the performances of the players acquired in return (6:00). Then, after debuting the Ultimate Marlins Depth Charts series with right-handed pitchers on the previous episode, the analysis continues with southpaws (30:30). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kicking off a new Fish Bites series, Ely identifies all of the notable right-handed pitchers in the Marlins organization (5:40). The 30-plus potential impact arms are separated into four tiers: current major leaguers (11:05), prospects slated for MLB debuts during the 2020 season (34:25), the next waves of talent for 2021 and beyond (46:15), and "curiosities" who don't fit neatly into the prior categories (53:03). From Sandy Alcantara to Evan Fitterer, learn more about the right-handers who will help the Fish turn the corner into a competitive team. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unofficially launching Fish Stripes' 2020 MLB Draft coverage, Ian Smith and Ely Sussman are joined by Baseball America national writer Carlos Collazo (1:40). They discuss Marlins draft history, particularly the star-studded 2019 class (featuring JJ Bleday and Kameron Misner), plus all of the plausible candidates for the Fish to consider with their first-round pick next June. Ever wonder what a draft analyst does during these cold-weather months with limited game action? Collazo walks us through it. Follow Carlos (@CarlosACollazo), Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Ian (@FlaSmitty), Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcasting has no offseason! Ely Sussman hosts the latest episode of Fish Bites. From Jon Berti's baserunning and Jarlin García's untouchable changeup to Lewis Brinson's homerless streak, we have handpicked Marlins season stats—both positive and negative—that encapsulate the team's most important developments in 2019 (3:20). Joining us for a rare interview (48:03), Marlins Chief Revenue Officer Adam Jones reflects on all of the "ballpark enhancements" that were implemented a year ago and his ambitious plans for 2020 and beyond. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh off Sunday's season finale, it's time to hand out the hardware for the 2019 Fishys (5:25)! From "most disappointing" to "MVP," there were 11 award categories, voted on by the fans on FishStripes.com and Twitter. As covered in a new article, Marlins Park attendance perked up in the second year of the new rebuild (30:45), and it even compares favorably to 2017 figures when you focus on the paid, in-person turnout. Flawed as he may be, Don Mattingly remains in the manager's seat heading into 2020. The episode wraps up by identifying areas where he can improve (43:40). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marlins shortstop prospect Nasim Nuñez calls in from instructional league to tell Ethan and Ian about his experiences as a pro baseball player so far. The Collins Hill High School product credits his family for supporting his pursuit of this dream and his teammates for making him feeling welcome in this new environment. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Nasim (@Diamonds_Nas23), Ethan (@ethanbudowsky) and Ian (@FlaSmitty) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shocked by the news of Don Mattingly's extension, Danny Martinez explains why he's being retained as Marlins manager despite all the losing over the past four seasons (2:40). More understandably, the team decided to lock in Miguel Rojas, one of their most valuable all-around players (15:20). We wrap up with some fascinating Isan Díaz stats (23:15). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Danny (@DannyM_MIA) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In their first season as a Marlins MiLB affiliate, the Low-A Clinton LumberKings made a deep playoff run. Erik Oas, the team's director of broadcasting and media relations, speaks to Ely and Ethan about the transition from Mariners to Marlins affiliation (5:30), dealing with harsh climate early in the season (8:45) and what makes Mike Jacobs an effective manager (13:00). Individual prospects featured in the conversation include Connor Scott, Evan Edwards, José Devers, Jerar Encarnación, Alex Vesia and C.J. Carter. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Ely (@RealEly), Ethan (@ethanbudowsky) and Erik (@erik_oas) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danny Martinez hosts Part I of our 2019 Fishys award coverage. Biggest surprise? Gold Glove? Most Valuable Player? We want our audience to weigh on all of the deserving Marlins players. Listen to this episode for background on each of the nominees (11:20), then cast your vote at either the Fish Stripes Twitter account or the homepage of the website. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Danny (@DannyM_MIA) on Twitter. Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ely Sussman has all the key takeaways from the first week of September baseball. Garrett Cooper asserted himself as the Marlins Hitter of the Week (4:45), while Brian Moran and Sandy Alcantara shined on the mound (8:20). Fish Stripes recently unveiled our 2019 Marlins All-Minor League Team (12:00), featuring 20 of the most productive players on the farm this season. The roster is led by Isan Díaz, Sixto Sánchez and Edward Cabrera, but includes plenty of under-the-radar names who deserve your attention. In conclusion, we identify some key adjustments that Alcantara has recently made and what to expect from him moving forward (48:00). Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Ely (@RealEly) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danny urges everybody to be safe as Hurricane Dorian approaches (1:00). He touches on five steps that the Marlins must take heading into 2020 to present a more competitive product at the major league level (6:15), including real investment in veteran players and hiring Don Mattingly’s replacement. The advanced stats paint a mixed yet slightly encouraging picture of Isan Díaz as a major leaguer (32:30). Expect better results in September than we saw in August. Newly recalled Robert Dugger seized Pitcher of the Week honors in his Marlins Park debut (41:00). Meanwhile, Starlin Castro, Jorge Alfaro and Harold Ramirez all had offensive impact (44:50), though most of that production went for naught during a 1-6 week. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes) and Danny (@DannyM_MIA). Full coverage here at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recording for the final time during the 2019 Minor League Baseball regular season, Danny Martinez welcomes right-hander Nick Neidert for an exclusive interview (2:30). The Georgia native touches on everything from college football and knee injury rehab to the skill set that's made him one of the best prospects in a pitching rich Marlins farm system. Follow Fish Stripes (@fishstripes), Danny (@DannyM_MIA) and Nick (@NickNeidert) on Twitter. Full coverage at FishStripes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.