He's only played three games, but Cameron Maybin is showing promise that the Marlins may have found their first regular center fielder since Juan Pierre.
Maybin was nine for 11 in his first three games, including 4-for-4 in his first start Thursday and 4-for-5 on Friday. He tied a franchise record by reaching base in 10 straight plate appearances. But it was his running and speed that impressed his teammates. Maybin scored twice from first base on hits Thursday.
Maybin, 21, has a unique running style. He flails his right arm in a circular motion as he rounds second -- which he does to help him maintain balance.
Manager Fredi Gonzalez wouldn't speculate on whether Maybin would bat first next year with shortstop Hanley Ramirez batting third instead of his usual lead-off spot.
Maybin "can hit anywhere I that lineup, just like Hanley could," Gonzalez said.
MARLINS 14, PHILLIES 8: The Marlins tied a franchise record with their ninth win in a row Friday. 2B Dan Uggla, 3B Jorge Cantu and SS Alfredo Amezaga each homered while 1B Mike Jacobs had two doubles and 4 RBI. RHP Josh Johnson had his worst start -- five runs in five innings -- but still won his sixth decision.
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