yahoo
For years, the Miami Marlins have been searching for a consistent answer at first base. Kyle Stowers has developed into a promising hitter, but his defensive future at the position remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Kemp Alderman is making strides at Triple-A Jacksonville and could soon emerge as a compelling internal candidate for the role.
The key question is whether Alderman can do more than earn a brief call-up and instead push for a regular spot in the starting lineup. He would be moving to a position he has played before, but one that is currently held by a former MLB All-Star.
Alderman, a former Ole Miss standout selected in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft, has already shown raw power that could translate to the major leagues, elevating him among Miami's top hitting prospects. Following a strong 2025 season, he continued to make an offensive impact at Jacksonville in 2026.
In 105 games, Alderman batted .254 with 19 home runs, 64 RBI, 10 stolen bases, and a .769 OPS. While these numbers are not eye-popping, they represent solid progress for a hitter adjusting to Triple-A pitching. His 19 home runs confirm that the power potential noted in his draft profile remains intact.
Such positional flexibility adds significant value to an organization trying to solidify first base. Stowers offers an intriguing skill set, but he appears better suited for the outfield. Despite flashes of offensive production, his development has been hampered by injuries. Turning 28, he is older than Alderman and still working to establish a full, healthy major league season. In contrast, Alderman is a younger option with high-upside power who could develop into a regular at first base. If he performs well in Spring Training, the Marlins will find a place for him in the field.
Key Analysis
High strikeout rates and a tendency to chase pitches out of the zone remain areas for improvement. A .254 average and .335 on-base percentage through 2026 indicate that he needs to refine his approach before making the jump. Nevertheless, his elite exit velocities and defensive versatility provide a clear path to South Florida. Miami has shown a preference for rewarding prospects who earn their opportunities. If Alderman can improve his plate discipline and adapt smoothly to first base, he could force his way into the 2027 roster picture.
"Alderman retains his power-over-hit profile, and the Marlins are continuing to work on his swing decisions as he has a tendency to chase, which cuts into his walk rates," his official MLB scouting report states. "[However] The right-handed slugger produces top-of-the-scale exit velocities and has done a better job of tapping into that strength lately while slightly decreasing his strikeout rate."
With Stowers still trying to secure his role, Alderman's promotion would create a genuine positional battle. The front office is under no pressure to rush a young hitter. However, if Alderman proves his bat belongs in the majors, limiting him to a bench role would make little sense. Miami has a legitimate run-producer in its minor league pipeline. If his Triple-A performance carries over to the big leagues, Alderman could quickly alter manager Clayton McCullough's long-term plan at first base.
Originally reported by yahoo.