Otto Lopez Sets Tone Early for Miami Marlins

Marlins shortstop homers in first game back from World Baseball Classic

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:33pm

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Miami Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez is picking up right where he left off, hitting a home run in his first game back from the World Baseball Classic. The 27-year-old is on a mission to show he can be a two-way player, both defensively and offensively, as he enters his third season with the Marlins.

Why it matters

Lopez is a key part of the Marlins' middle infield, and the team is hoping he can build on his success and become a top-10 shortstop in the league this season. His hot start after the WBC is a good sign that he's ready to take his game to the next level.

The details

Lopez hit a home run in the bottom of the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays, his former team, in his first game back from the World Baseball Classic. The Marlins are expecting him to increase his on-base percentage and avoid chasing pitches outside the strike zone this season. Lopez has also increased his bat speed from 2024 to 2025.

  • Lopez hit the home run in the bottom of the first inning on March 16, 2026.
  • The Marlins are entering the 2026 season, which will be Lopez's third with the team.

The players

Otto Lopez

The 27-year-old shortstop for the Miami Marlins, who is looking to build on his success and become a top-10 shortstop in the league this season.

Xavier Edwards

The Marlins' other starting infielder, who forms an elite middle infield duo with Lopez.

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What’s next

The Marlins will be looking for Lopez to continue his hot start and help lead the team to the postseason.

The takeaway

Otto Lopez's early home run in his first game back from the World Baseball Classic shows he is ready to take his game to the next level and become a top-tier shortstop in the league. The Marlins are counting on him to be a key part of their middle infield and offensive attack this season.