Colorado Rockies vs Miami Marlins Picks and Predictions August 26th 2024

Marlins’ Connor Norby takes ‘simple’ approach into matchup vs. Rockies

The Colorado Rockies and Miami Marlins, two franchises forever intertwined in Major League Baseball history as 1993 expansion teams, find themselves in a less celebrated connection this season: they hold the two worst records in the National League. Despite past successes, including World Series appearances, both teams are now struggling, setting the stage for a crucial four-game series starting Monday night in Denver.

Pitching Matchup: A Battle of Struggling Starters

Miami Marlins:
The Marlins will rely on Edward Cabrera (2-5, 5.65 ERA) to break their recent slump. Cabrera, who has had an inconsistent season, offers a glimmer of hope with his past performances against the Rockies. In two starts at Coors Field, he has posted a respectable 2.25 ERA, and in three career starts against Colorado, he holds a 1-1 record with a 3.94 ERA. As Miami looks to climb out of its current rut, Cabrera’s ability to perform under pressure could be pivotal.

Colorado Rockies:
Opposing Cabrera will be Ryan Feltner (1-10, 5.00 ERA), who is returning from the injured list after a right shoulder strain sidelined him earlier this month. Feltner’s season has been a nightmare, with his last win dating back to April 12 against Toronto. Since then, he has endured a 0-9 streak over 20 starts. Despite pitching well enough at times, the Rockies’ anemic offense—shut out 13 times this season—has often left him with little to show for his efforts. Feltner’s 1-0 record and 3.86 ERA in three career starts against Miami might offer a shred of optimism for Colorado as they return home after a challenging road trip.

Connor Norby: The Marlins’ Rising Star

A New Hope for Miami:
Amid the Marlins’ struggles, Connor Norby has emerged as a bright spot. Acquired from the Baltimore Orioles on July 30, the 24-year-old infielder has quickly made his presence felt since being called up from Triple-A. In just 25 plate appearances, Norby has racked up six extra-base hits, including a near-cycle performance in Sunday’s 7-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs, where he fell just a triple short.

Norby’s Mindset:
Norby attributes his early success to a “simple” approach at the plate. “I’m just trying to keep it simple now, stick to my plan and approach,” Norby said. “Trust my work that I put in. Try to play team baseball. The more you focus on the team, I think it takes pressure off you individually.” This focus on team-oriented play has not only boosted his individual performance but has also provided a spark for a Marlins team desperately in need of positive momentum.

Rockies’ Challenges and Bright Spots

Rocky Road Ahead:
The Rockies return to Coors Field after a tough stretch on the road, going 2-4 against the Washington Nationals and New York Yankees. Colorado’s struggles have been compounded by their inability to consistently generate offense, a theme that has plagued them all season. Despite this, there have been moments of individual brilliance, such as Jake Cave’s four-hit performance in a 9-2 win over the Yankees. Acquired in March, Cave has been a reliable contributor for a young Rockies team searching for stability.

Manager’s Confidence in Cave:
“Jake has been good all year,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “He has delivered. He has been a big part of when we win games.” Cave’s performance symbolizes the potential that still exists within the Rockies roster, even as the team faces an uphill battle for the remainder of the season.

A Series with High Stakes

As the Marlins and Rockies prepare to face off, the stakes, while not playoff-bound, are significant for both teams. For Miami, the emergence of players like Connor Norby offers a glimpse into a brighter future, where young talent could turn the tide for the franchise. For Colorado, the focus remains on finding consistency and supporting a pitching staff that has often been left stranded by a lackluster offense.

This series is more than just a meeting of two struggling teams—it’s an opportunity for both franchises to reset and find a way forward in what has been a challenging season. With rising stars and desperate veterans on both sides, this matchup in Denver could provide a turning point for either team, setting the tone for the final stretch of the season.

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