Mark Kotsay came to South Florida in 1997 as the top amateur, after winning the Golden Spikes Award and College World Series at Cal State Fullerton. Drafted ninth in 1996, he quickly reached the majors in under a year.
In 1998, Kotsay excelled defensively, leading all Major League outfielders with 20 assists. He had a strong, cannon-like arm that discouraged baserunners. Despite team struggles after the veteran purge, Kotsay's rookie season was impressive, batting .279 with 11 home runs and a 3.9 bWAR, the highest on the team. He demonstrated complete control of center field, showing that his amateur skills translated well to the professional level.
Kotsay plateaued in offensive efficiency over the next two summers. In 2000, he achieved a career-high .298 average, 12 home runs, and 19 stolen bases. Just days before Opening Day in 2001. In a move that shocked the fanbase, the organization finalized a trade that sent Kotsay to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Matt Clement and Eric Owens.
Kotsay compiled 439 hits, 31 home runs, and a .282 batting average as a Marlin.
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