One 12-game losing streak ruined a promising season for the Miami Marlins.

The Marlins had a 52-42 record following their 8-4 victory over the Mariners on July 9, leaving them only three games out of the lead in the NL East and solidly in possession of a wild-card berth. The Marlins then had that aforementioned 12-game losing streak, dropping them to fourth in the division and 10.5 games out of first. While they were able to rally for a solid 80-82 record, the season was still a reminder of what could have been.

The core for a playoff contender is in place. It is a matter of ownership opening the checkbook to add the final pieces needed to take that next step forward. However, as has typically been the case, the Marlins offseason may be defined by who departs to save ownership money rather than who is signed to fortify the roster.

Three questions facing the Miami Marlins?

1. Who gets traded this offseason?

Trade rumors swirl around the Marlins every offseason. This one will not be an exception. Pitcher Sandy Alcantara has been a frequent subject of trade rumors, although the Marlins reportedly plan to keep their franchise icon. 

That does not mean the Marlins are out of the rumor mill. They are reportedly willing to listen to offers for infielders Xavier Edwards and Otto Lopez, though they have a high asking price. It makes sense for the Marlins to keep that trio if they are serious about contending in 2027, but their history has usually dictated otherwise.

2. Who handles the ninth inning?

The Marlins thought they had an answer at closer when they signed Pete Fairbanks to a one-year, $13 million contract. Instead, he battled nerve irritation in his right hand before undergoing surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome, explaining his worst season since establishing himself in the majors. Fairbanks did lead the Marlins with 19 saves, but also posted a disappointing 6.31 ERA and a 1.355 WHIP over his 41.1 innings.

The Marlins potentially have a pair of internal candidates for the ninth inning. Calvin Faucher led the team with 15 saves in 2025 and filled in for Fairbanks during his time on the Injured List. Ronny Henriquez missed the 2026 season after undergoing an internal brace procedure in his right elbow but showed a great deal of promise during a stellar 2025 campaign. It would make sense for the Marlins to add a veteran reliever with closing experience as a safety net as well, even if it is on another one-year contract.

3. Do the Marlins extend any parts of their core?

The Marlins are in an interesting spot financially. Alcantara is the only player with a guaranteed contract for 2027 as he would receive a $2 million buyout if his $21 million team option is not picked up. He is also slated to become a free agent after the season, leaving the Marlins with a virtual blank slate for the 2027-28 offseason.

That financial flexibility could give the Marlins an opportunity to lock in several pieces of their young core. They reportedly attempted to extend outfielder Kyle Stowers during the 2025-26 offseason, with there being mutual interest in a long-term deal despite the lack of success in those talks. Edward, Lopez, catcher Joe Mack and pitcher Eury Perez could also make sense as candidates for an extension as the Marlins have a unique opportunity in front of them.