First Half In Review

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Overview: The Marlins entered the All-Star break at a disappointing 42-46 and are a full 10 games behind the first place Braves.

Positives: Not too much. Josh Johnson is having another stellar year (9-3, 1.70 ERA) and tossed two impressive innings in the All-Star Game on Tuesday. Also, Gaby Sanchez has performed very admirably (.302/.365/.467, 9 HR, 21 doubles) and could garner Rookie of the Year consideration.

Negatives: The bullpen has been quite horrendous. Also the team has struggled to score runs consistently. Hanley Ramirez is having an off year by his high standards. And of course who could forget the managerial firing - courting of Bobby Valentine - week without a manager - Edwin Rodriguez appointment as manager sequence?

Looking Ahead: It might be a long second half of the season. By all accounts the Marlins may move a few players (Cody Ross, Dan Uggla, Jorge Cantu, Ricky Nolasco, etc.) and look towards 2011 and beyond. The real drama will probably be seeing if JJ and Gaby can grab some hardware at the end of the season.