Solano a steady presence for Marlins at No. 2 spot

MIAMI -- The Marlins appear to have found their answer for who bats second.

Donovan Solano has heated up, going 7-for-15 on the homestand entering Tuesday.

The top of the order now has Christian Yelich leading off, followed by Solano, Giancarlo Stanton and Logan Morrison.

"We've spent a lot of time all year trying to find that guy who can hit up there in front of Stanton," manager Mike Redmond said. "A guy who can make contact and get on base."

The Marlins have tried just about everyone. Ed Lucas Adeiny Hechavarria and Jake Marisnick each have had their chances.

Solano has raised his season average to .273 with two homers and 24 RBIs. He's driven in 18 runs over his last 23 games. For the season, the Miami second baseman has taken off while batting second. In 81 at-bats there, he's hitting .364 with a .395 on-base percentage.

"I feel more comfortable," Solano said. "I feel my approach has come back. My mind and my body, too. I feel more healthy and happier, too."

Like so many on the Marlins, Solano has had his ups and downs. He went on the disabled list in May with a strained left intercostal muscle. When he was healthy, he was optioned to Triple-A New Orleans.

Now, he's been one of Miami's steadiest hitters. He also has the benefit of batting in front of Stanton, one of the most feared sluggers in the game.

"They don't want to put me on base and face Stanton," Solano said. "They want to throw strikes and get me out."