Marlins Look to Even Series Against Mets

The Miami Marlins (78-72) will face the New York Mets (68-80) in the second game of their three-game series Tuesday night. It will be a battle between southpaws on the mound. Miami’s Braxton Garrett (9-6, 3.67 ERA) facing off against the Mets’ Joey Lucchesi (3-0. 2.83 ERA).

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Marlins Fall Short in Game 1

Miami set a season-high for runs scored with a four-home run performance Sunday afternoon. Left-handed pitcher Jesus Luzardo went six scoreless innings in a 16-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves. Moreover, the Marlins became the first National League East team to beat the Braves in a series this season.

The Marlins hoped to keep the momentum going into Monday night’s game against the Mets after sweeping the league’s top team. Things looked positive as Miami’s Luis Arraez collected his 200th hit on the season in the game, becoming the fourth Marlins player to reach 200 in a season.

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However, Miami couldn’t come away with a win. They mustered five hits against rookie Jose Butto, who shut down a Marlins lineup that scored 36 runs in three games against the Braves. In the ninth inning, New York’s Jeff McNeil hit a tiebreaking home run to halt the Marlins’ three-game win streak.

Playoff Implications

In two weeks, the Miami Marlins will know whether they are postseason bound for the first time in a full season since 2003.

This series is crucial for the NL East team. After Monday night’s loss, they fell a half-game behind the Cincinnati Redsfor the final NL Wild Card spot. Cincinnati is a half-game in front of the Marlins after defeating Minnesota Monday night.

Additionally, Miami sits a half-game behind the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks, as well.

With 11 games remaining, the Marlins must move forward to continue their postseason pursuit.

Tuesday’s game begins at 6:40 p.m. at LoanDepot Park.