The Miami Marlins continue to drift further from a National League Wild Card spot, now sitting seven games back. While they remain mathematically in contention, time is quickly running out. If they hope to make a late push toward the postseason, they’ll need to build some positive momentum—and fast. The team has leaned on its youth throughout the season, with young talent playing critical roles on both offense and defense. One of the most important young players has been MLBbro Xavier Edwards, who continues to emerge as one of the league’s most consistent hitters.
Now in his third Major League season, Edwards has become a hitting machine. As of August 22nd, he boasts an impressive .302 batting average, placing him among the top three in the National League. That puts him in prime position to potentially become the next MLBbro to capture a batting title—an elite achievement few have earned.
Miami Pound Machine: Xavier Edwards Returns From Injury With 5-for-5 Night
The last MLBbro to win a batting title in either league was Tim Anderson, who led the American League in 2019 while playing for the Chicago White Sox. Interestingly, the last MLBbro to win it in the National League was also a Miami Marlins second baseman: Dee Strange-Gordon in 2015. Mookie Betts won for Boston in 2018. That historical parallel adds intrigue to Edwards’ pursuit and highlights the significance of his potential achievement.
Edwards faces tough competition. The Dodgers’ Will Smith and Freddie Freeman are also in the top three and aren’t slowing down. To stay in the race, Edwards must remain locked in at the plate. So far, he’s done just that. Since transitioning to second base as his primary position, Edwards has seen a noticeable boost in production—batting .326 at second base, compared to .263 when playing shortstop. While the position change helped his comfort level, it’s his refined approach at the plate that has made the biggest difference.
Xavier Edwards Hitting .319 With .400 OBP Over Last 30 Games
Edwards has focused on pulling the ball more frequently and making harder contact. That subtle but impactful shift has allowed him to drive the ball with authority and find more gaps in the defense. The improvement in results has been undeniable, and it’s proof that his development as a hitter is just beginning.
Tony Gwynn & Rod Carew Tops Among MLBro Batting Champs
Since 2000, only two MLBbros have won a National League batting title: Barry Bonds (2202 and 2004) and Dee Strange-Gordon. Edwards has a legitimate chance to join that rare company this season. And at just 26 years old, he could be in the conversation for many more years to come. Some have even begun drawing comparisons—cautiously—to Tony Gwynn, the Hall of Fame legend known for his consistent hitting. While it’s far too early to make that kind of projection, the ceiling is undeniably high for Edwards.
The left-handed hitting Gwynn won eight batting titles in his career, which is tied for the most in National League (NL) history. It’s definitely tops among Bros. Rod Carew had seven batting titles between 1969-1978.
Edwards is batting .302 entering Thursday night and embroiled in a tight five-way race for the batting title. He currently trails Trea Turner (.303) and Freddie Freeman (.304) in the race. If Edwards captures the title in what is technically his first full season, it could mark the beginning of a truly stellar career. Regardless of whether he finishes on top this year, Xavier Edwards is proving that he belongs among baseball’s best—and the Marlins have a cornerstone to build around for years to come.
