From the beginning, the battle for third base was supposed to go to top prospect Matt Dominguez. He could field well but could not hit well, thus prompting Marlins manager Edwin Rodriguez to send Dominguez to Triple-A for some seasoning.
There’s no doubt that he will be back to help the Marlins in their playoff run, but until then, there are two players left to battle it out for the position.
Donnie Murphy is known to Marlins fans for his game winning hits during the time he was called up in the summer of 2010, giving him the name Donnie $^@# Murphy. More of a glove than a bat, Donnie can also hit as well. In 2010, he hit .318 in 44 at-bats.
After losing the third base job two years ago, Emilio Bonifacio has turned himself into a speedy super utility player with the ability to play in the outfield and infield. He says he’s ready for a second go-around. The problem with Bonifacio is still his hitting. In 2010 he hit .261 in 180 at-bats, but when he does get on base he is a top threat to steal.
So far it looks like Donnie Murphy is the favorite to win the starting job. Which would be something that manager Edwin Rodriguez would like to do while having Bonifacio assume the role of super utility man.
The Marlins have until Thursday to announce their final 25-man roster.
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