Yelich, Marisnick a boon for Marlins

Miami Marlins outfield prospects Christian Yelich and Jake Marisnick are being promoted to the parent club.

They are the top two prospects in the organization, and they rank No. 10 and No. 56, respectively, on MLB.com's Top 100 Prospects list.

Yelich has the ability to center the ball and use the outfield gaps like a seasoned veteran. His strong hands and wrists are the focal point of his success. Yelich is a pure hitter and should compile an outstanding batting average.

Just 21 years old, the 6-foot-4, 195-pound left-handed hitter is still gaining power. It might be the final tool Yelich needs to fully develop. He has very good speed and refined basestealing instincts.

Marisnick, 22, who has been slowed by a broken bone in his hand, came to the Marlins in the 12-player offseason trade with the Toronto Blue Jays. He is more of a power hitter at this point. Like Yelich, Marisnick is capable of hitting for average. It may take some time for him to gain consistency.

Marisnick is a 6-foot-3, 225-pound right-handed hitter. There are times his big frame complicates his swing, reducing his contact. Marisnick isn't as pure or refined a hitter as Yelich, but he has strong offensive upside.

Like Yelich, Marisnick has above-average speed for such a big man. He, too, can steal bases.

As I evaluate both players defensively, Yelich projects to play left field, with Marisnick in center. Both Yelich and Marisnick are above-average outfield defenders.

Yelich and Marisnick should be an outstanding duo to watch. Each is charismatic and possesses game-changing tools.