Will Marlins' Triple-A Prospect Make the Big Leagues in 2027?
· Yahoo Sports
The Miami Marlins have spent considerable time searching for a long-term solution at first base. As the organization looks toward the 2027 season, one of its newest additions could provide an intriguing answer.
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Jonathon Long might not be the most highly touted prospect in Miami's farm system, but his offensive production and proximity to the major leagues make him a player worth watching.
Acquired from the Chicago Cubs at the 2026 trade deadline in the deal involving left-hander Braxton Garrett, Long arrived in Miami with an impressive minor league résumé and relatively little left to prove at Triple-A.
The 24-year-old right-handed hitter has consistently demonstrated an ability to make contact, get on base and produce runs. His arrival also gives the Marlins another potential right-handed option in a lineup that has frequently needed more balance.
[Teams] have tried Long at third base and in left field, but his below-average speed and fringy arm strength don't make him suited for either position," his official MLB scouting report reads. He's limited to first base, where he's a decent defender."
Those numbers suggest a player whose offensive abilities could translate to the majors, even if his defensive limitations create some questions about his ultimate role.
Long's professional track record provides plenty of reason for optimism. In 2025, he led the International League with 157 hits while finishing second in runs (86) and total bases (246). He also ranked third in walks (79) and RBIs (91), demonstrating the kind of all-around offensive production that can make a player valuable at the next level.
He continued that production in 2026. Before the trade to Miami, Long was hitting .283, with 12 home runs and 62 RBIs in 99 games for Triple-A Iowa. His July performance earned him International League Player of the Month honors, further reinforcing his readiness for a greater challenge.
What Needs to Happen in 2027?There are a couple of areas Long can address to improve his chances.
First, he needs to continue developing his power production. MLB Pipeline identifies his tendency to hit too many ground balls as an obstacle to maximizing his offensive potential. Getting the ball airborne more consistently, particularly toward his pull side, could help him turn his raw power into more home runs.
Enhancing his defensive versatility could also work in his favor. Though his primary experience has been at first base, demonstrating reliability when filling in at left field would offer the coaching staff added tactical flexibility.
Long has a realistic shot at breaking into manager Clayton McCullough's 2027 roster plans. While he may not be the immediate frontrunner for the starting role at first base, his proven offensive track record against high-level minor league pitching gives him a distinct advantage. Given the Marlins' ongoing search for offensive depth, Long's steady production over the past two seasons makes a compelling case.
Whether his path leads to a full-time starting role, a platoon partnership, or a key reserve assignment, Long has effectively cleared every hurdle in the farm system. As his projected 2027 arrival window opens, the next phase of his career in Miami is quickly coming into focus, bringing his minor league journey to a close.