When the lights went out and they met for the last time before heading off for their mandatory break, the Marlins players hugged, shared memories and souvenirs. One asked for signatures for his bat, another for a baseball, others exchanged jerseys.
The chemistry and good vibes could be felt in the clubhouse. Perhaps it was all due to the contained optimism of having left a greater impression than the total failure that had been predicted since the beginning of spring.
Although they still have a lot to accomplish, these players feel they have achieved something important: forming a core. “I’ve always believed in these guys; I know they don’t give up,” said Edward Cabrera, the Mets’ executioner on the final day.
“From day one, we knew we were going to compete because I saw the talent they had from the inside. Many couldn’t have known it, but I did.”
The Marlins finished 2025 with a 79-83 record, a huge leap forward after the 62-100 disaster of 2024. Yes, 17 more wins, a franchise record that’s steadily improving year after year… and on top of that, they won the series against the Mets for the first time since 2017. Who would have thought it?
The team finished third in the NL East ahead of the Atlanta Braves, but beware, it’s not all about position. Winning 13 of the last 17 games makes it clear that there’s something different about this group. They’re not the same as always, not even close. “If I told you we weren’t happy, I’d be lying, but we’re excited,” said Javier Sanoja, the one-man band of the fish ship.
