The Miami Marlins faced off against the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, suffering a 6-2 defeat. Amid the loss, Xavier Edwards made history with a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
Edwards achieved a remarkable feat by hitting for the cycle, becoming only the second player in Marlins history to do so. He followed in the footsteps of Luis Arraez, who recorded the franchise's first cycle on April 11, 2023. Edwards’ cycle is also notable for being the third in the 2024 MLB season, with Wyatt Langford and Yordan Alvarez having achieved the same milestone on June 30 and July 21, respectively.
In what has been a turbulent season for the Marlins, Edwards’ performance shines brightly. Recalled earlier this month to fill the void left by Tim Anderson’s release, the young shortstop has adapted impressively to his new role. In just 25 games, Edwards has posted a stellar .393/.470/.512 slash line, proving his worth both defensively and offensively for the team.
Edwards' journey to the cycle on Sunday began with an unconventional start: a walk in the third inning. Yet, it was a precursor of things to come. Later in that same inning, he knocked a double, setting the stage for his historic accomplishment. As the game progressed, he tripled to the gap in right-center during the seventh inning, edging closer to completing the cycle. The climax arrived in the ninth inning, when Edwards faced Brewers closer Devin Williams and hit a single, securing his place in the record books.
Each step towards his cycle demonstrated Edwards' versatility and aptitude for making impactful plays. His first career MLB home run, which intriguingly occurred in his 184th game, was a highlight of the match. Edwards showcased his broad skill set, contributing significantly from the leadoff spot in the lineup and holding down the shortstop position effectively.
The Marlins' decision to trade Jazz Chisholm Jr. to the Yankees earlier in the season left a gap in their infield, one that Edwards has filled admirably. His performance on Sunday highlighted his adaptability and provided a glimpse into what could be a bright future for the young talent. Despite the team’s overall struggle, Edwards' individual achievements offer a reason for optimism among Marlins fans.
While the Marlins fell short against the Brewers, Edwards’ accomplishment brings a silver lining to an otherwise challenging season. His cycle not only contributes to his growing reputation but also adds an exciting chapter to the franchise's history. As the Marlins look to build on this season’s developments, Edwards' versatility and knack for crucial plays will be integral to their success moving forward.