The Team: Miami Marlins
The last time the Phillies saw Miami, they were in the midst of breaking out a bit as a team. They lost the only two games against the Phils that week amidst the craziness of the NFL Draft. In those games, Phillies pitchers held the Marlins to six total runs.
More from Phillies News
- Bryce Harper’s absence should lead to Phillies lineup tinkering
- Pirates’ bizarre Vince Velasquez hype video will make Phillies fans laugh
- Acquiring Brandon Marsh gave the Phillies flexibility
- Former Phillies starter Zach Eflin shares heartwarming goodbye message
- Is Rhys Hoskins the future at first base for the Phillies beyond 2023?
Since then, the Marlins have gone 8-20. They are currently two games ahead of the Phillies in the standings at 19-30. Expectations were a bit higher heading into this season.
The offense has plenty of firepower, but has not really found a groove at all. They rank 22nd overall in runs scored. Their .737 OPS is 17th in baseball and the 57 homers are also right smack in the middle of the league as well.
With hitters like Christian Yelich and Giancarlo Stanton, one would think the Marlins would be much higher in these categories.
The pitching end of things has also been a struggle. With a team ERA at 4.74, they are in the bottom three in the sport. The batting average against them is also right in the middle of the league. In 427 innings heading into the series, the Marlins have only struck out 269 hitters.
It is a battle of the division’s worst to start the week, and we can only hope the Phillies make the best of it.