Xavier Edwards interview: playing shortstop, 'crazy' foot infection & more

Miami Marlins starting shortstop Xavier Edwards sits down with Fish Unfiltered for an exclusive interview!

Topics covered during our conversation:

• Trade from Rays to Marlins
• Foot infection earlier this season
• Hitting for the cycle
• How he became a switch-hitter
• Toughest pitchers he's faced
• Top Triple-A call-up candidates
• Friendships with Josh Bell and Troy Johnston

Find Fish Unfiltered on the Fish On First YouTube channel, our new-look Apple Podcasts channel and wherever else you get your pods. FOF's audio programming also includes The Offishial Show, Swimming Upstream, Big Fish Small Pod and more.

The Fish On First podcast is presented by MPT College Consulting! They pride themselves on helping clients navigate the college application process. This includes preparation for standardized testing, guidance through high school, assistance with essays and applications, and choosing the right college. Visit them today at mptcollegeconsulting.com to learn more about their services and schedule a free consultation.

Our partners are FOCO are creating a limited-edition bobblehead honoring Edwards' performance on July 28 when he became the second player in Marlins history to hit for the cycle. Pre-order yours here.

Speaking with Fish On First the day before his 25th birthday, Edwards has been exceeding all expectations. Since taking over as Miami's everyday shortstop on July 2, the speedy switch-hitter has accumulated 1.5 fWAR while slashing .387/.449/.471, putting up comparable numbers from both sides of the plate. His 46 hits during that span rank second in Major League Baseball behind only Bobby Witt Jr.

A crucial question for the Marlins moving forward is whether Edwards can stick at shortstop or whether he'll ultimately shift over to second base. He explains the differences between the positions:

"I think it starts with your feet, just getting going towards the ball faster and just getting your feet moving forward. At second, you can sorta wait back, catch the ball and the guy should be out...Really enjoying it again, remembering how much I loved playing short as an amateur and at the beginning of my pro career."

Edwards currently wears No. 63 for the Marlins, but expect a change in 2025.

"I am gonna try to get No. 9 next year," Edwards says. "That's my favorite number, my mom's favorite number and the number I've worn my whole baseball career."