The Miami Marlins are trying to build off their 2023 playoff appearance, but it’s been a rough go so far to begin the 2024 season. After a tumultuous offseason that saw the departure of general manager Kim Ng because the franchise wanted to hire a president of baseball operations above her, the Marlins are finding themselves in a familiar position — basement dwellers.
However, the Marlins have won two World Series in their 31 years of existence and some all-time greats have put on their uniform. Because of this, HobbyListings is taking a look at the top baseball cards every Marlins fan needs.
Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!
The List: Best Miami Marlins Baseball Cards Every Fan Needs
1. 2000 Topps Traded Autograph Miguel Cabrera Rookie Card (#TTA40)
Miguel Cabrera was one of the greatest hitters of his generation. Cabrera debuted with the Marlins in 2003 and was a key figure in their World Series win that year. His tenure with the Marlins set the foundation for a career that would include multiple batting titles and MVP awards. Cabrera retired after the 2023 season with over 500 home runs and 3,000 hits — one of only seven players in history to accomplish that feat.
2. 2008 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospect Michael Stanton Autograph (#BDPP115)
Now known as Giancarlo Stanton, he would become one of baseball’s most formidable power hitters. During his time with the Marlins, Stanton was known for his prodigious home runs and was named NL MVP in 2017.
3. 2011 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospect Jose Fernandez Autograph (#JF)
Jose Fernández’s first Bowman card holds a special place for Marlins fans, representing a talent whose life was tragically cut short in a boating accident in 2016 at the age of 24. Fernández burst onto the scene as one of the most talented young pitchers in baseball, winning the NL Rookie of the Year in 2013 and becoming a two-time All-Star.
4. 2003 Bowman Chrome Hanley Ramirez Autograph Rookie Card (#334)
Hanley Ramirez emerged as a star shortstop during his time with the Marlins. He won the NL Rookie of the Year in 2006 with the franchise and was a key offensive player for several seasons.
5. 2002 Bowman Chrome Draft Refractor Dontrelle Willis Rookie Card (#120)
Dontrelle Willis’ rookie card is a favorite among Marlins fans. Known for his distinctive high leg kick and charismatic personality, Willis was a key part of the Marlins’ 2003 World Series team and won the NL Rookie of the Year.
6. 2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospect Autograph Christian Yelich (#BDPP78)
Christian Yelich developed into one of the game’s best hitters during his time with the Marlins. He won a Gold Glove with Miami before being traded and subsequently winning an MVP with the Milwaukee Brewers.
7. 2017 Bowman Chrome Prospect Autograph Jazz Chisholm (#CPAJC)
Jazz Chisholm has become the centerpiece of the Marlins’ future. The exciting young player was named an All-Star in 2022.
8. 2015 Topps Dynasty Ichiro Suzuki Autograph Patch (#AP14)
Even though he only played three seasons for the Marlins and is better known for his time with the Seattle Mariners, Ichiro’s gorgeous 2015 Topps Dynasty Autograph Patch card is a must-have for any Marlins fan.
The Miami Marlins: A Tale of Ups and Downs
The Miami Marlins, established as an expansion team in Major League Baseball in the early 1990s, have a unique history characterized by dramatic highs and lows. Here’s an overview of the Marlins’ journey in MLB.
Establishment and Early Success
- Founded in 1993: The Marlins entered MLB as the Florida Marlins, bringing major league baseball to South Florida. They quickly gained attention for their rapid success.
- 1997 World Series Champions: Just five years into their existence, the Marlins shocked the baseball world by winning the World Series. Managed by Jim Leyland and featuring players like Gary Sheffield, Kevin Brown, and Livan Hernandez, they defeated the Cleveland Indians in a thrilling seven-game series.
Key Players in Marlins History
- Miguel Cabrera: Cabrera debuted with the Marlins in 2003 and was a key figure in their World Series run that year. He emerged as one of baseball’s premier hitters during his early career in Miami.
- Giancarlo Stanton: Known for his prodigious power, Stanton became one of the game’s most formidable sluggers during his tenure with the Marlins, culminating in an NL MVP award in 2017.
- José Fernández: Fernández, a talented pitcher whose career and life were tragically cut short, was one of the most electrifying arms in the game during his time with the Marlins.
- Hanley Ramirez: Ramirez, a dynamic shortstop, won the NL Rookie of the Year in 2006 with the Marlins and was a key offensive player for the team for several seasons.
A Second World Series Triumph
- 2003 World Series Champions: The Marlins captured their second World Series title in 2003 under Jack McKeon. Key players included young stars like Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis, and Josh Beckett, who was named World Series MVP.
Periods of Rebuilding
- Post-Championship Overhauls: Following both World Series wins, the Marlins underwent significant roster changes, trading away high-profile players in moves that often frustrated the fan base.
- New Identity: In 2012, the team rebranded as the Miami Marlins and moved to Marlins Park, a state-of-the-art stadium in Little Havana.
Recent Developments
- A New Era: The Marlins have entered a period of rebuilding, focusing on developing young talent.
- 2020 and 2023 Playoffs: In a shortened 2020 season, the Marlins reached the playoffs for the first time since 2003, showcasing the potential of their young roster. The Marlins made it back to the playoffs in 2023 as well, losing to the Philadelphia Phillies in the Wild Card round.