Page "Miami Marlins" Paragraph 27

After winning the 2003 World Series, the Marlins entered 2004 with high hopes and a retooled roster.

Retaining a core of stars from their title team and hoping that newly acquired 1B Hee Seop Choi would emerge, the Marlins fell short of reaching the postseason, but they posted the third winning season in franchise history, boasting an 83-79 record.

During the season, the Marlins to made one of the biggest trades in club history as Los Angeles got P Brad Penny, 1B Hee Seop Choi and Double-A left-hander Bill Murphy in exchange for P Guillermo Mota, C Paul LoDuca and OF Juan Encarnacion.

Pitchers Carl Pavano and Armando Benitez turned in record-setting performances.

Pavano went 18-8 with a 3. 30 ERA, and his 18 wins established a season high by a Marlin.

Benitez became the club's season saves leader with 47 ( in 51 saves attempts ).

Pavano, Benitez, Mike Lowell and Miguel Cabrera each enjoyed All-Star seasons, with Cabrera belting 33 homers ( second-most ever in a season by a Marlin ) while driving in 112 runs.