New Marlins slugger Jake Burger grew up playing hockey with Matthew Tkachuk

As children, Burger and Tkachuk bonded on the frozen ponds of St. Louis

The Florida Panthers aren't the only professional sports team in South Florida that’s on the rise.

Messi is playing for Inter Miami, the Miami Heat, like the Panthers, just made a trip to the Finals, the Miami Dolphins have one of the most talented rosters in recent memory and the Miami Marlins are fighting for a playoff spot in a tough National League.

Tuesday was the MLB Trade Deadline, and the Marlins were one of the more active teams.

One of the players they acquired was slugging infielder Jake Burger from the Chicago White Sox.

Burger, who was born and raised in St. Louis, has some hockey in his background.

Believe it or not, he actually grew up playing with Panthers superstar forward Matthew Tkachuk.

"My family is really fired up for me," Burger said of the trade. "(My sister) grew up with Matthew Tkachuk and I played hockey with him growing up, so it feels good to be in the same city as him."

It's crazy to think that a friendship that started as children on the frozen ponds of eastern Missouri can continue as professional athletes in South Florida.

Burger said he hasn't touched base with Tkachuk just yet, and it's understandable why.

"It's been a whirlwind 24 hours," he said with a laugh. "I'm going to let things settle down before I do."

Under team control for the next several seasons, Burger could find himself settling into South Florida for the foreseeable future.

It will be nice for him to have a familiar face around for part of the year.

Also, don't be surprised to see Burger show up at a Panthers game sometime next season.

It's hard to imagine someone who grew up playing the greatest sport in the world not still having some love for it.