Marlins option struggling Ozuna to Triple-A
Outfielder in midst of 1-for-36 slump; corresponding move not yet announced
CHICAGO -- Marcell Ozuna, in the midst of a 1-for-36 slump, was optioned to Triple-A New Orleans on Sunday after the Marlins' 2-0 loss to the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
The 24-year-old center fielder has seen his production decline since he was batting .280 on June 23. Since then, he has one hit and is riding an 0-for-19 spell after going hitless in three at-bats in the series finale at Chicago.
The Marlins have not announced their corresponding move yet, but outfielder Jordany Valdespin is expected to be called up from New Orleans.
Ozuna is batting .249 with four home runs (all on the road) and 26 RBIs. His on-base percentage has dipped to .301, and he has a .337 slugging percentage.
In 2014, his first full season in the big leagues, Ozuna belted 23 homers and drove in 85 runs.
The Marlins were hopeful Ozuna would help pick up the slack after Giancarlo Stanton suffered a broken left hand and will miss at least a month.
• Miami finding ways to start both Morse, Bour
With Ozuna heading to Triple-A, the Marlins likely will mix and match their outfield. Left fielder Christian Yelich could play some center field, and first baseman Michael Morse could see action in left. Ichiro Suzuki and Cole Gillespie are candidates to play center field or right.