The Miami Marlins' fortunes took another hit as they fell to the Milwaukee Brewers 6-2 on Sunday. Despite the loss, the game was marked by a remarkable individual achievement from Xavier Edwards, who delivered one of the rarest feats in baseball—hitting for the cycle.
Edwards, a recent recall who has been slashing .393/.470/.512 in 25 games, shone brightly in the otherwise bleak game for the Marlins. His journey towards completing the cycle was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing a blend of patience, power, and speed.
The Journey to the Cycle
Edwards began his memorable day with a walk in the third inning, demonstrating his discipline at the plate. Shortly thereafter, he hit a double, starting his long march towards the cycle. By the seventh inning, he had tripled to the gap in right-center, leaving him just a single shy of the milestone.
It was in the ninth inning when Edwards sealed his place in Marlins history. Facing Brewers' closer Devin Williams, Edwards delivered a single to complete the cycle, capping an incredible personal performance amid an otherwise difficult game for Miami.
A Historic Achievement
This cycle stands as a significant achievement not just for Edwards but also for the Marlins franchise. It marks only the second cycle in Marlins' history, following Luis Arraez's cycle on April 11, 2023. Moreover, Edwards' cycle is the third recorded in the 2024 MLB season, making it even more noteworthy. Wyatt Langford and Yordan Alvarez also achieved cycles earlier this season, on June 30 and July 21, respectively.
Edwards' feat is made even more remarkable considering it came in his 184th MLB game, during which he also hit his first career MLB home run. Such milestones highlight Edwards' growing impact and importance to the team, particularly in light of recent roster changes.
Stepping Up for the Team
With the release of Tim Anderson earlier this month, Edwards was recalled to fill the void at shortstop. He has not only accepted the challenge but has thrived, providing a consistent presence at the top of the Miami lineup. The Marlins also traded Jazz Chisholm Jr. to the Yankees, further cementing Edwards' role as the team's primary shortstop.
Each step towards achieving the cycle demonstrated Edwards' versatility and his knack for making impactful plays. His ability to adapt and excel in crucial moments is a testament to his skill and preparation, an encouraging sign for the Marlins as they navigate a challenging season.
Despite the loss to the Brewers, the game will be remembered for Xavier Edwards' exceptional performance. It’s a silver lining for the Marlins and a reminder of the talent and potential that Edwards brings to the field every game. As the season progresses, the Marlins will undoubtedly lean on his abilities and leadership in their quest for improvement.