Marlins’ Javier Sanoja Exceeds Expectations
Javier Sanoja is a 5-foot-7 middle infielder from Maracay, Venezuela, just like Jose Altuve.
Naturally, the 21-year-old Sanoja idolizes the eight-time Astros all-star.
“We met last year in spring training when I asked (Altuve) for a photo,” Sanoja said in Spanish. “This year, he called me and offered advice.”
That advice must be working, because Double-A Pensacola manager Kevin Randel said Marlins executives and coaches were impressed with Sanoja’s work this year in spring training.
“He’s got a lot of energy, and he’s versatile,” Randel said of Sanoja, who spent just 15 games at Double-A this season before being promoted to Triple-A Jacksonville.
“He’s advanced for his age. Eventually, he will be a top-of-the-lineup guy.”
Sanoja’s best position is second base, but he plays shortstop just as frequently. He also plays center field at least once a week.
Known among Marlins prospects for his baseball IQ, Sanoja signed for just $90,000 in July 2019.
He exceeded expectations last year. His 158 hits at two Class A levels led all Marlins minor leaguers, while his 7.3% strikeout rate ranked fourth-lowest among qualified full-season hitters.
Sanoja, who has gained 25 pounds of muscle over the past two years, is still working on driving the ball. In 132 games last year, Sanoja hit 20 doubles, eight triples and four home runs.
He also stole 37 bases, though he was caught 22 times.
“I think I’m hitting the ball harder this year,” Sanoja said. “I’m focused on making good contact and on pitch selection.”
Through 53 games for Jacksonville this year, he hit .316/.375/.447 with two home runs and five stolen bases.
Defensively, Randel said the Marlins’ plan is to move Sanoja around. Sanoja said second base is his best position, followed by center field.
“At shortstop, the throws are longer,” Sanoja said, “and there’s more responsibility.”
