Giancarlo Stanton says he's uncertain if he'll play again this season

The Marlins are still in wait-and-see mode with their slugger

The Marlins entered Thursday just 1 1/2 back in the race for the second wild card. Yet no matter how close the Marlins get to a postseason spot, their efforts are overshadowed by the looming specter that is Giancarlo Stanton's availability.

Stanton, of course, was placed on the disabled list earlier this month due to a severe groin strain. Though the original diagnosis had Stanton out for the season, the Marlins have since softened their stance -- to the point where Michael Hill stated Stanton would return before the year ended.

Stanton doesn't seem as certain:

Stanton rehabbing, says thinks there is chance to possibly play again this season but uncertain of likelihood.

— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) August 25, 2016

Obviously Stanton knows his body better than anyone else, and is therefore best positioned to make these kind of statements. It's interesting, however, that he seems to be more conservative than the team on this front. Usually the player is the overzealous one, with the team being more reasonable. Still, it's possible Stanton is just playing it coy -- or not wanting to make a public promise he can't keep.

Whatever the case, the Marlins have every reason to hope Stanton makes a quick return. Their playoff hopes -- or, at least, their hopes of making noise in the postseason -- could hinge on it.