​Griffin Conine, the Miami Marlins’ outfielder and first baseman, would be quick to tell you that his major league career has been a roller coaster, marked by notable highs and lows, with a few unexpected twists along the way. The peak moment came on August 27, 2024, at Coors Field, when Conine lined a stand-up triple off former Marlins right-hander Cal Quantrill, a moment he could share with his family in attendance. Unfortunately, injuries have slowed his ascent and limited his opportunity to establish consistency over his first two seasons with the club.
In 2025, during a season in which Miami did not reach the playoffs, Conine endured a season-ending injury to his left shoulder while attempting to slide into second base. He returned later that year, in September, but the setback left a lasting impact on his trajectory. This season has carried its own unique arc for Conine, who entered spring training with a new challenge: manager Clayton McCullough expressed a desire to see Conine stretch at first base, a position Conine had never played in his career, but one that his father, Jeff Conine, had long manned.
The season opened with a setback in an April 9 game against the Cincinnati Reds at loanDepot park. Hoping to make a leaping dive and haul in a potential left-field grab, Conine wound up leaving the game early after an awkward landing. It was soon disclosed that he would undergo surgery to repair a torn left hamstring, an injury expected to sideline him for six to eight weeks.
Now healthy, recovered, and feeling like himself again, Conine is ready to contribute to the Marlins as they pursue their goal of reaching the postseason. Entering Friday with the club ten games above .500, the team is chasing its first playoff appearance under McCullough and its first since 2023. “I think it’s ups and downs for sure. I think, like Colorado, I thought I was back, fully back, but that’s a pitching staff where you’re not getting challenged heavily,” Conine reflected after finishing a triple shy of the cycle. He added, “I think I got a lot of off-speed there, so I think Sacramento exposed me a little bit, because they had good fastballs, and I just wasn’t on fastball timing, basically.”
With right fielder Owen Caissie placed on the 10-day injured list Friday due to a right calf strain, Conine should see more time in right field, operating alongside a varied mix of teammates. Esteury Ruiz started Friday in some capacity, Heriberto Hernández was the starter in left field that day, and Kyle Stowers has been a frequent presence at first base.
As Conine continues to navigate the adjustments of a long professional road, the Marlins will rely on his versatility and veteran presence to help guide a team energized by the prospect of postseason play. The journey remains ongoing, with Conine focused on staying durable, refining his timing, and contributing wherever he is most needed in the lineup.