As if they had anything to prove, both Hanley Ramirez and Josh Johnson had stellar All-Star performances this weekend in Anaheim. Many Marlins fans had little doubt that these two would shine, but the rest of the baseball world got a first-hand look at the bright future of this organization.
It all got started Monday night at the Home Run Derby where Hanley Ramirez belted 26 total home runs, good for second place to Boston's David Ortiz, a notorious power hitter. Ramirez outhit many of the game's biggest names, including Miguel Cabrera and Matt Holliday. Although Ortiz won the Derby, many believe that Ramirez stole the show because of his unique style of home runs. Unlike Ortiz's high arcing fly ball homeruns, Ramirez hit nothing but laser shot line drives all over the park, including right field! This performance might have been the stage for Ramirez to make his mark as one of the Majors' premier talents.
During the All-Star Game, Josh Johnson came in relief of Ubaldo Jimenez in the 3rd and 4th innings and was nothing short of spectacular. In two innings of relief, Johnson refused to allow a hit as he retired all six batters he faced in order, striking out two. This feat is remarkable considering the caliber of batters he faced, but still isn't what had most fans excited. Johnson lit up the radar gun by throwing 99 MPH on a couple occasions, making him nearly unhittable.
Our two all-stars represented the city of Miami well this past week, but what really counts is the remaining time left on the season. The Marlins are still clearly in contention, and with rumors swirling about potential trades and Minor League promotions (Logan Morrison), the Marlins can continue to make their presence felt. But how far we go will depend upon our leaders, our captains, our All-Stars, and if this past is any indication, our season is in good hands.
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