Fernandez, Marlins Look to Make a Comeback vs. Royals

With the Miami Marlins (65-60) fighting for the National League’s second wild card spot and the regular season coming to an end next month, they know they are getting to crunch time in the regular season.

Miami lost last night at home against defending World Champion Kansas City (65-60) 1-0. Last night’s game marked the ninth straight win for the Royals and the first loss for the Marlins after their three-game sweep against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Miami sits 1.5 games behind the St. Louis Cardinals in the race for the second wild card spot.

Wednesday, the Marlins look to lessen that gap between themselves and the Cardinals as they take on the Royals again.

The Royals had a rough time during the first five innings, with Marlins pitcher Andrew Cashner shutting them out and allowing for no walks. This was Cashner’s best start with the Marlins since he joined the team on July 29, after being traded from the San Diego Padres.

His best wasn’t enough, though, as Kansas City managed to score a run at the top of the sixth inning. Cashner walked Paulo Orlando, then stole second, and he would later score to account for the only run of the game.

Marlins manager Don Mattingly says last night’s game was a pretty even match up, but his Marlins just could not manage a run.

Jose Fernandez (12-7, 3.05 ERA) will start off on the mound tonight for the Marlins. Miami looks to him to even out the series and keep them in the running for a wild card spot.

Tonight at @MarlinsPark: José takes on the reigning World Champs.#JoséDay | https://t.co/wM2b9XzXn2 pic.twitter.com/YxMnVywSCg

— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) August 24, 2016

Dillon Gee (5-6, 4.52 ERA) is expected to start on the mound for the Royals Wednesday.

Tonight’s game at Marlins Park will begin at 7:10 p.m.