Colorado Rockies series preview against the Miami Marlins

Rox Pile: What’s your opinion of Derek Jeter and his role in Miami so far?

Kraczkowski: Personally, I’ve been a big fan of Derek Jeter since he took over. Firstly, just based on the fact that he was replacing the worst owner in the history of U.S. organized sports, the despised Jeffrey Loria.

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Locally, and in the court of public opinion, Jeter took his lumps early on. He was criticized for not getting that much in return for Dee Gordon, Giancarlo Stanton, Christian Yelich, and Marcell Ozuna. That outlook was prevalent, but largely misguided. When you trade established players for prospects, the jury is out for two-to-five years.

It’s not fair to hold up Yelich and say, “Look at what he did,” while ignoring the fact that the Marlins got four pretty good prospects in return. Lewis Brinson projects to be better this year, Monte Harrison may have a productive 2020 and beyond, Isan Diaz should join the team around July, and Jordan Yamamoto may be one of the best arms in the Marlins’ minor league system.

The public opinion on Jeter seems to be coming around, but you shouldn’t necessarily expect Marlins Park to suddenly start selling out. It’s going to take time, and Jeter’s plan is long-term by design.