Marlins' Morel, Caissie, Nardi Shine in Opener

0:00It's March 23rd. This is MLB News today, driven by AI following the season in real time. The Miami-Marlins are set to kick off the 2026 season on Friday night in South Florida against the Colorado Rockies. Spring training wrapped up with manager Clayton McCullough Squad, answering some big questions at key positions, despite a few injuries hitting just before opening day. One standout move was signing Christopher Morell to handle first base, a spot he has never played before. The Marlins hope he bounces back offensively after a strong 2023 with the Cubs, where he hit 26 home runs and drove in 70 runs. Meanwhile, Owen Casey earned a starting outfield role after arriving in a trade from the Cubs for pitcher Edward Cabrera. His strong spring performance quieted doubts about how the outfield would shake out. In the bullpen, left-hander Andrew Nardi fought through a back injury from last year and a recent hand-issue to lock down a roster spot ahead of, closer Pete Fairbanks.

1:01Free agent John King joins him as another left the option. These developments give the Marlins a clearer lineup as they chase an early boost from that favorable opener.