Miami Marlins first baseman Christopher Morel will miss his regular-season debut after being scratched from Friday's Opening Day lineup against the Colorado Rockies due to a left oblique strain. The 26-year-old was set to undergo further evaluation after being listed as a late scratch. Connor Norby replaced Morel at first base for the season opener.

Morel signed a $2 million, one-year contract with Miami in December, emerging as the team's primary starting first baseman during spring training after uncertainty about the position. His absence creates a significant setback for the Marlins, who invested in the veteran player to stabilize their infield. The team had been evaluating multiple candidates for the role heading into the season.

The injury comes as a blow to Miami's plans, as Morel hit .219 with 11 home runs and 33 RBIs in 105 games for the Tampa Bay Rays last season. During spring training with the Marlins, he went 6-of-40 with five RBIs and a stolen base. The timing of the injury, on Opening Day, forces the Marlins to adjust their lineup and potentially reshuffle their infield plans for the immediate future.