Marlins Continue Winning Streak as Brewers Struggle with Injuries
The Miami Marlins, currently at the bottom of the National League East, are surprising everyone with a potential sweep over the National League Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers. Despite being underdogs and dealing with recent player trades, the Marlins have clinched the first two games of the series with scores of 6-2 and 7-3.
Marlins’ Surprising Upswing
The Marlins, often overlooked this season, are playing with newfound freedom and determination.
“They’re playing with nothing to lose. You could say they’ve got nothing on the line, but they’re major league players and they’ve been playing really well against us,” acknowledged Brewers manager Pat Murphy.
This attitude shift has led to a recent series win against the Baltimore Orioles and a split with the New York Mets.
Josh Bell’s Hot Streak: First baseman Josh Bell has been on fire, hitting home runs in four consecutive games and five out of the last six. “Josh Bell’s on a heater right now,” said Marlins manager Skip Schumaker. Bell’s hot streak has been crucial, especially following the trade of Jazz Chisholm Jr. to the New York Yankees.
Lineup Adjustments: In the wake of Chisholm’s trade, the Marlins have been experimenting with their lineup, placing Nick Gordon in center field and Xavier Edwards as the leadoff hitter. These changes have worked well, notably in a game where the Marlins scored five runs in a single inning.
Brewers’ Struggles and Injury Concerns
The Brewers are currently facing significant challenges, primarily due to key player injuries. All-Star outfielder Christian Yelich is on the 10-day injured list with lower-back inflammation, which has been a major blow to the team. The Brewers’ offense has struggled, scoring only 10 runs over the last five games, with Yelich’s return date still uncertain as he opts for rest and rehab instead of surgery.
Pitching Woes: The Brewers’ pitching lineup has also been hit hard. Right-hander Devin Williams is sidelined with a back injury, and left-hander Bryan Hudson was recently placed on the 15-day injured list due to an oblique strain. To strengthen their bullpen, the Brewers acquired right-hander Nick Mears, who has been solid with a 1.80 ERA in his last 12 appearances.
Upcoming Pitching Matchup
Sunday’s game will feature Brewers’ rookie right-hander Tobias Myers and Marlins’ right-hander Kyle Tyler.
Tobias Myers (6-4, 3.14 ERA): Myers has shown promise in recent games, holding a 5-2 record over his last eight starts. In his last outing, he allowed three runs in a loss to the Chicago Cubs.
Kyle Tyler (0-1, 3.92 ERA): Tyler is set to make his fifth start of the season for the Marlins, marking his first appearance against the Brewers.
Access the Best MLB Betting Insights! Follow Our Odds, Lines & Scores for the latest updates and make smart bets.
Ceremonial Highlights
The game will also feature a ceremonial first pitch thrown by former Brewers star Ryan Braun, who will be inducted into the Brewers Walk of Fame. Braun, the team’s all-time home run leader and a six-time All-Star, adds a nostalgic touch to the day’s events.
Looking Ahead
As the Marlins aim for a sweep and the Brewers try to bounce back from their injury setbacks, Sunday’s game is crucial for both teams. The Marlins continue to play strong despite uncertainties surrounding their lineup, while the Brewers are striving to regain their footing amidst a tough stretch.