4 games left; one more chance to mess with the Braves, and then the Phillies. It looks as if Jeremy's over and done; Hanley will take a breather; Nick may be back, but maybe not Cody.
The OK-lately Ricky Nolasco goes up against the recently-unhittable Javier Vazquez.
The Marlins won their last September 30th game and are 2-2 in their last four, including a win over Atlanta in 2005. The Braves have lost their last four September 30th games.
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
This Could Be It, Zombie Edition
5 games left, 5.5 games back. The Marlins need a cosmic realignment just to even think of reaching the playoffs. The clubhouse resembles a medical ward, with Gload wearing a surgical mask and Josh, Nick, John, Jeremy, Brett and Fredi in various states of snifflage. Supernatural forces need to descend to revivify their lifeless efforts and help slap a few sloppy singles in a row.
Josh valiently fights off the flu to start against Tim Hudson tonight.
Here's some fun trends on this game from crunchsports.com...
"As a team the Marlins are 7-0 in their last 7 games during game 2 of a series and are an impressive 14-3 in Johnson's last 17 starts during game 2 of a series. They are also an impressive 33-13 in Johnson's last 46 starts. And take this one for what it's worth, but they happen to be 1-4 in Johnson's last 5 Tuesday starts.
"On the flip side, the Braves are 13-0 in their last 13 games versus a right handed starter and are themselves 19-7 in their last 26 during game 2 of a series. Dating back some years though, they are an impressive 10-3 in Hudson's last 13 starts versus the Marlins..."
Both the Braves and Marlins are 3-3 in their last 6 September 29th games - the Braves lost their last 9/29 game and the Marlins lost their last two.
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BINGO!: Marlins win 5-4, but Rockies win 7-5 in 11 innings, and the grounds crew at LambShank Stadium can start laying out the sod over the baseball diamond.
Josh valiently fights off the flu to start against Tim Hudson tonight.
Here's some fun trends on this game from crunchsports.com...
"As a team the Marlins are 7-0 in their last 7 games during game 2 of a series and are an impressive 14-3 in Johnson's last 17 starts during game 2 of a series. They are also an impressive 33-13 in Johnson's last 46 starts. And take this one for what it's worth, but they happen to be 1-4 in Johnson's last 5 Tuesday starts.
"On the flip side, the Braves are 13-0 in their last 13 games versus a right handed starter and are themselves 19-7 in their last 26 during game 2 of a series. Dating back some years though, they are an impressive 10-3 in Hudson's last 13 starts versus the Marlins..."
Both the Braves and Marlins are 3-3 in their last 6 September 29th games - the Braves lost their last 9/29 game and the Marlins lost their last two.
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BINGO!: Marlins win 5-4, but Rockies win 7-5 in 11 innings, and the grounds crew at LambShank Stadium can start laying out the sod over the baseball diamond.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Must-Win - The Final Chapter
6 games left, 5 games back; Braves 2.5 games ahead. The Marlins can't lose no more, and Colorado and Atlanta must obligingly lose for the rest of the season. Hopefully the Fish sent the flu crew up early to sneak into the Atlanta clubhouse and cough on the lockers. Every little bit helps.
The Braves are on a six-game win streak, and Jurrjens has won his last three starts. The Marlins are 4-2 at Turner Field this year, and Anibal's last start was his best this year.
In September 28 games, the Fish have won their last two after losing the previous two, while the only win the Braves had in their last five was in 2007. The Marlins and Braves have never played each other on 9/28 before.
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UGH: Marlins lose again.
The Braves are on a six-game win streak, and Jurrjens has won his last three starts. The Marlins are 4-2 at Turner Field this year, and Anibal's last start was his best this year.
In September 28 games, the Fish have won their last two after losing the previous two, while the only win the Braves had in their last five was in 2007. The Marlins and Braves have never played each other on 9/28 before.
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UGH: Marlins lose again.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Must-Win-to-Hold-Back-Oblivion
7 games left, 4 games back of the WC lead, and 1.5 behind Atlanta. And it keeps getting tougher. Johan beat the Marlins last year on this date. Josh Johnson has got the team flu and has been scratched - Chris Volstad will start today against daytime-away-game-loving Pat Misch.
And just because Maine didn't like his music selection, now Cody may be out for the rest of the year - he's out of today's line-up at least.
Both the Mets and Marlins have won 3 of their last 5 September 27th games. But, along with last year, the Mets beat the Fish in 9/27/2003.
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WARM-UP-THE-FAT-LADY: Fish lose; Rockies, Braves, Giants win.
And just because Maine didn't like his music selection, now Cody may be out for the rest of the year - he's out of today's line-up at least.
Both the Mets and Marlins have won 3 of their last 5 September 27th games. But, along with last year, the Mets beat the Fish in 9/27/2003.
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WARM-UP-THE-FAT-LADY: Fish lose; Rockies, Braves, Giants win.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Must-Win-to-the-Nth-Power
8 games left, 5 games back. I was at the game last night, which supposedly had the third-highest attendance this year at LambChop (EDIT: you're right - it should be 'LambShank') Stadium. It was crowded, which giving away tons of tickets to teachers, firefighters, and the military would do. A crazy festive time was present, with a decided lack of Mets fans as compared to earlier games. Tonight though, no free tickets, as Sean Paul takes the Super Saturday stage after the game.
"Big Game" Sean West starts tonight against Marlins-killer John Maine.
The Mets haven't lost on the final Saturday of September since 2002. The Marlins beat the Mets last year on September 26. The Marlins won their last two September 26th games, while on September 26 the Mets have lost their last three games.
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HAPPY-RECAPPY: Fish win 9-6.
MORE: Rockies lose too.
"Big Game" Sean West starts tonight against Marlins-killer John Maine.
The Mets haven't lost on the final Saturday of September since 2002. The Marlins beat the Mets last year on September 26. The Marlins won their last two September 26th games, while on September 26 the Mets have lost their last three games.
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HAPPY-RECAPPY: Fish win 9-6.
MORE: Rockies lose too.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Must-Win, Mets Edition
9 games left, 4 games back in the WC. The lost Mets would love to do to the Fish what the Fish did to them the last couple of years. It's Ricky Nolasco against Tim Redding tonight.
On September 25's both the Marlins and Mets won their last game, lost the previous two, and won the preceding two.
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LOST: Leo lets it get away as the Mets win 6-5. Colorado wins, too.
On September 25's both the Marlins and Mets won their last game, lost the previous two, and won the preceding two.
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LOST: Leo lets it get away as the Mets win 6-5. Colorado wins, too.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Must-Win Part Eight
10 games left, 5.5 games back in the WC. Cole Hamels verses the Hurk tonight. Hamels is "3-1 with a 1.43 ERA" over his last 5 starts, but is "2-5 with a 4.19 ERA in 10 starts" lifetime against the Fish. Rick gave up "a run and four hits in six innings" in his last start but allowed "nine runs in 6 1/3 innings" lifetime against the Phils. The Marlins have won in VandenHurk's last three starts.
In September 23rd games, the Phils have lost their last two after beating the Marlins in 2006, while the Marlins have lost their last five in a row.
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WIN!!!: Lidge blows another gift our way, as Ross, Chris, and Hanley combine for Jorge to tie and Brett to do the walk-off - Fish win 7-6.
In September 23rd games, the Phils have lost their last two after beating the Marlins in 2006, while the Marlins have lost their last five in a row.
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WIN!!!: Lidge blows another gift our way, as Ross, Chris, and Hanley combine for Jorge to tie and Brett to do the walk-off - Fish win 7-6.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Double Hanging-On-By-Fingernails Must-Wins
12 games left, 5 games back in the WC, Atlanta tied with the Marlins. Craig totals up the situation facing the Marlins.
The Marlins escaped Cincinatti with a 2-2 record, which at any other time of the year would have been celebrated as a vast improvement, but at this juncture almost signals disaster. And now Philly, who has owned Landshark Stadium this year, returns for three more games, two tonight.
The ancient past also reeks. The Marlins in their history have played the Phillies 4 times on September 22nd and have a 1-3 record against them (the last time was in 2006). The Fish have lost their last 3, and 4 of their last 5, September 22nd games. The Phillies have won their last 6 September 22nd games.
First game is Josh vs. Joe; second game is Anibal vs. Jamie. Time to make a new history.
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SPLITSVILLE: Marlins lose one, win one - Colorado wins.
The Marlins escaped Cincinatti with a 2-2 record, which at any other time of the year would have been celebrated as a vast improvement, but at this juncture almost signals disaster. And now Philly, who has owned Landshark Stadium this year, returns for three more games, two tonight.
The ancient past also reeks. The Marlins in their history have played the Phillies 4 times on September 22nd and have a 1-3 record against them (the last time was in 2006). The Fish have lost their last 3, and 4 of their last 5, September 22nd games. The Phillies have won their last 6 September 22nd games.
First game is Josh vs. Joe; second game is Anibal vs. Jamie. Time to make a new history.
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SPLITSVILLE: Marlins lose one, win one - Colorado wins.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Get-Out Must-Win
13 games left, 4 games back. West and Wells are on the mound today. It's a rainy day in Cincy.
The Reds won their last two, and four of their last five, September 20th games. The Marlins lost on 9/20/2008 and are 5-3 in their last 8 Septmeber 20 games.
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OUT?: Fish lose, Rockies win.
The Reds won their last two, and four of their last five, September 20th games. The Marlins lost on 9/20/2008 and are 5-3 in their last 8 Septmeber 20 games.
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OUT?: Fish lose, Rockies win.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Must-Must-Must-Win
14 games left, 4 games back. Atlanta's now a half-game behind the Marlins.
One more streak last night's game ended was the Reds' run of 57 wins when leading after eight innings. They were the only NL team this year to not blow a 9th-inning lead - until last night.
On this very special day it's best for Craig to give tonight's game preview.
Both the Reds and Fish won last September 19th. They are both 2-3 in their last 5 September 19th games.
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DID-DID-DID-WIN: Gload's homer was the difference - Marlins win 3-2.
One more streak last night's game ended was the Reds' run of 57 wins when leading after eight innings. They were the only NL team this year to not blow a 9th-inning lead - until last night.
On this very special day it's best for Craig to give tonight's game preview.
Both the Reds and Fish won last September 19th. They are both 2-3 in their last 5 September 19th games.
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DID-DID-DID-WIN: Gload's homer was the difference - Marlins win 3-2.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Cincinatti Must-Must-Win
15 games left, 5 games back. Atlanta's now a half-game ahead of the Marlins and starts a series with the Phillies tonight in Atlanta, where Philly has a 2-4 record this year. The Giants are 3.5 games back in the Wild Card and play at Dodger Stadium for the weekend, where they are 2-4 against the Dodgers this year. The WC-leading Rockies are in Arizona, where this year they are 3-3 against the Diamondbacks.
Yes, yes, the Marlins have lost 9 straight at Cincinatti. The Reds are also on a tear at home, winning their last 8 home games.
Here's hoping the Hurk's back isn't hurting, as he's back hurling tonight. Homer Bailey starts for the Reds.
The Marlins and Reds both have a 3-5 record in their last 8 September 18th games - Florida won last year, while Cincinatti's last win was in 2007.
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STREAKS-DEFEATED!: Fish win 4-3.
Yes, yes, the Marlins have lost 9 straight at Cincinatti. The Reds are also on a tear at home, winning their last 8 home games.
Here's hoping the Hurk's back isn't hurting, as he's back hurling tonight. Homer Bailey starts for the Reds.
The Marlins and Reds both have a 3-5 record in their last 8 September 18th games - Florida won last year, while Cincinatti's last win was in 2007.
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STREAKS-DEFEATED!: Fish win 4-3.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Cincinatti Must-Win
16 games left, still 4.5 games back. Colorado and San Francisco are off, but the Braves are a half-game behind the Fish and finish up with the Mets tonight. Today coolstandings.com gives the Braves a 5.6 percent chance of making the playoffs and the Marlins 4.8 percent.
Cody and Dan are on hitting streaks. Brett starts tonight in place of Cameron.
The sordid history is that the Marlins haven't won at the GAB since April of 2006 and the Reds just finished sweeping the Astros there. But the Marlins Express must continue to roll on. Anibal starts for the Fish, and the Reds start Matt Maloney, replacing Johnny Cueto.
Both the Fish and Reds in September 17th games have the exact-same win-loss record for the past five years - a win last year, preceded by four losses. They have never played each other on a September 17.
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OUCH!: Fish lose 3-2.
Cody and Dan are on hitting streaks. Brett starts tonight in place of Cameron.
The sordid history is that the Marlins haven't won at the GAB since April of 2006 and the Reds just finished sweeping the Astros there. But the Marlins Express must continue to roll on. Anibal starts for the Fish, and the Reds start Matt Maloney, replacing Johnny Cueto.
Both the Fish and Reds in September 17th games have the exact-same win-loss record for the past five years - a win last year, preceded by four losses. They have never played each other on a September 17.
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OUCH!: Fish lose 3-2.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Afternoon Must-Win
(FIXED) 17 games left, but now 4.5 games back. They're back on the right track, just got to keep it moving. Josh Johnson and Joel Pineiro are to start today.
Florida won on September 16 last year after losing three September 16ths in a row. St. Louis has lost four of their last five September 16th games - the win was in 2006.
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OW-RIGHT!: Leo looked more inclined to injure than save, but Holliday finally obliged him - Fish win 5-2!
P.O.: Cardinals pissed off over Nunez's performance. (PBPost)
Florida won on September 16 last year after losing three September 16ths in a row. St. Louis has lost four of their last five September 16th games - the win was in 2006.
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OW-RIGHT!: Leo looked more inclined to injure than save, but Holliday finally obliged him - Fish win 5-2!
P.O.: Cardinals pissed off over Nunez's performance. (PBPost)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Another Midwest Must-Win
18 games left, still 5.5 games back. The Fish are facing Cy-Young candidate Adam Wainwright, and Sean West starts for the Marlins.
Both Florida and St. Louis did not play on Sept. 15th of last year. The Marlins on 9/15's have won their last two games after losing the previous six. The Cardinals lost their last September 15th game after winning the previous four.
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WHICH-GUY-IS-CY?: Adam pitched great but Sean got a career-high 9 strikeouts and the win for the Fish!
Both Florida and St. Louis did not play on Sept. 15th of last year. The Marlins on 9/15's have won their last two games after losing the previous six. The Cardinals lost their last September 15th game after winning the previous four.
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WHICH-GUY-IS-CY?: Adam pitched great but Sean got a career-high 9 strikeouts and the win for the Fish!
Next Year's Schedule Is Out
The 2010 season starts at Citi Field against the Mets and ends at home aginst the Pirates. Here's some more highlights...(MLB)
Monday, September 14, 2009
19 Games to Go
Firstly, Craig reports on how much it will cost to go to Marlins home games next year.
The Fish start their hopefully-improbable-rest-of-the-regular-season 6.5 games behind the Phillies for the NL East lead. Philly has the night off tonight.
The Marlins are 5.5 games behind the leader Colorado and 1 game behind the Giants in the Wild Card race - Colorado and the Giants face off in San Francisco late tonight.
The Marlins tonight are in St. Louis - Nolasco and Wellemeyer start.
In September 14th games, the Marlins have won 3 of their last 4, and the Cards have lost their last 5. Both Colorado and San Francisco have gone 2-2 in their last 4 September 14th games, though that includes the Giants beating the Rocks in 2006.
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OOF!: Game was close until Lindstrom let it leave the yard - Fish lose 11-6, Colorado loses.
The Fish start their hopefully-improbable-rest-of-the-regular-season 6.5 games behind the Phillies for the NL East lead. Philly has the night off tonight.
The Marlins are 5.5 games behind the leader Colorado and 1 game behind the Giants in the Wild Card race - Colorado and the Giants face off in San Francisco late tonight.
The Marlins tonight are in St. Louis - Nolasco and Wellemeyer start.
In September 14th games, the Marlins have won 3 of their last 4, and the Cards have lost their last 5. Both Colorado and San Francisco have gone 2-2 in their last 4 September 14th games, though that includes the Giants beating the Rocks in 2006.
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OOF!: Game was close until Lindstrom let it leave the yard - Fish lose 11-6, Colorado loses.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Sunday in the Park
The Marlins got back to the day before yesterday in the standings, but with two less games left in the season. Time for an afternoon get-away game.
Two iffy pitchers start today - Chris Volstad and John Lannan.
The Marlins beat this team last year and in 2004. In their last 6 September 13th games the Marlins are 5-1 and the Nats/Expos are 2-4.
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GAME-CALLED: The returning rain stopped any possible comeback in the 9th - Fish lose 7-2. Colorado loses, Philly wins the early game.
Two iffy pitchers start today - Chris Volstad and John Lannan.
The Marlins beat this team last year and in 2004. In their last 6 September 13th games the Marlins are 5-1 and the Nats/Expos are 2-4.
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GAME-CALLED: The returning rain stopped any possible comeback in the 9th - Fish lose 7-2. Colorado loses, Philly wins the early game.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Saturday Stuff
Cody's doing great, Jeremy not so great, Ross and Wes are battling for the pinch-hit team record, and Marco Estrada will make his first-ever MLB start vs. Anibal.
The Marlins beat the Nationals on this date last year and in 2007.
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BOOM!: Marlins win the rain-delayed game 11-3, and fireworks go off at midnight.
The Marlins beat the Nationals on this date last year and in 2007.
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BOOM!: Marlins win the rain-delayed game 11-3, and fireworks go off at midnight.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Weekend Warriors
First, congrats to Kiko for getting his identity back. Phoenix police saw a poorly inflated tire and pulled over a guy who tried to use Calero's driver's license and social security card as ID. The guy, who's name is Oscar Corral (or is it really?), was rung up on a pile of charges. We learn two things from this - that Kiko's real name is "Enrique Calero Carrion"; and that if you want to steal someone's identity, keep your tires inflated.
The Marlins and Nats come to town, and both will be leaving after this series is over. Washington haven't won here since July 1, 2008 - sounds like a fine tradition to me.
Josh Johnson and J.D. Martin are the starters. (the J.D. stands for John Dale.)
Florida is emerging from a tough spate of September 11th games. After a win in their first season (1993) the Marlins didn't win another September 11th game until 2006 - a total of 7 losses. But the Fish won their last two September 11th games, including against the Nationals in 2007 (both teams had 9/11 off last year). The Nationals have lost 3 of their last 4 9/11 games.
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ARRRGH! Fish lose 5-3, are now 6 games behind the Phils and 6.5 behind the Rocks.
The Marlins and Nats come to town, and both will be leaving after this series is over. Washington haven't won here since July 1, 2008 - sounds like a fine tradition to me.
Josh Johnson and J.D. Martin are the starters. (the J.D. stands for John Dale.)
Florida is emerging from a tough spate of September 11th games. After a win in their first season (1993) the Marlins didn't win another September 11th game until 2006 - a total of 7 losses. But the Fish won their last two September 11th games, including against the Nationals in 2007 (both teams had 9/11 off last year). The Nationals have lost 3 of their last 4 9/11 games.
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ARRRGH! Fish lose 5-3, are now 6 games behind the Phils and 6.5 behind the Rocks.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
I'm Not Putting the 'S' Word Here
First some blogospheric notes: Craig discusses how the Hurk is doing...
And the Maniac, in these two posts (Part 1)(Part 2) reveals how Fredi's bullpen management is ass-backwards.
At this moment (5:30 PM ET) Colorado is beating Cincinatti; Philly starts later, so there's playoff implications throughout the evening.
Sean West and Bobby Parnell start in the Citi tonight.
The Marlins won 4 of their last 5 (and 8 of their last 10) September 10th games. The Mets on September 10's have won their last two after losing the previous five.
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I'M-PUTTING-IT-HERE---SWEEP!: Fish win 13-4, Phillies lose, Rockies win.
And the Maniac, in these two posts (Part 1)(Part 2) reveals how Fredi's bullpen management is ass-backwards.
At this moment (5:30 PM ET) Colorado is beating Cincinatti; Philly starts later, so there's playoff implications throughout the evening.
Sean West and Bobby Parnell start in the Citi tonight.
The Marlins won 4 of their last 5 (and 8 of their last 10) September 10th games. The Mets on September 10's have won their last two after losing the previous five.
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I'M-PUTTING-IT-HERE---SWEEP!: Fish win 13-4, Phillies lose, Rockies win.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Next Must-Win Game Tonight
Brendan, Gaby and Chris are back.
It's tough when the Fish go 3-1 in their last 4 games yet lose 1.5 games in the Wild Card standings. Ain't gonna be easy.
If you look real quick (since 5:30 PM ET) you can see the Marlins' official site promoting playoff coverage of the Isotopes, even saying the Isotopes are still the Marlins' AAA team. Oops.
It's Nolasco against Misch tonight.
Both the Mets and Marlins won last year on 9/9. The Mets, though, have won their last 3 September 9th games, while the Fish have gone .500 in their last 4.
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STATUS-QUO: Marlins win, but so do the Rockies and Phillies. The Giants lose though.
It's tough when the Fish go 3-1 in their last 4 games yet lose 1.5 games in the Wild Card standings. Ain't gonna be easy.
If you look real quick (since 5:30 PM ET) you can see the Marlins' official site promoting playoff coverage of the Isotopes, even saying the Isotopes are still the Marlins' AAA team. Oops.
It's Nolasco against Misch tonight.
Both the Mets and Marlins won last year on 9/9. The Mets, though, have won their last 3 September 9th games, while the Fish have gone .500 in their last 4.
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STATUS-QUO: Marlins win, but so do the Rockies and Phillies. The Giants lose though.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
The Mets Won't Go Quietly
First, Craig catches us up on who's returned, who's returning, who may return, and who definitely won't return.
The Marlins play 3 at Citi Field starting tonight. If you thought the Mets may be torn between giving the Marlins some payback for ruining their playoff hopes two years in a row, or holding back to get better positioning in the offseason player draft, your answer comes tonight in the form of Carlos Beltran, who returns to the Mets' starting lineup tonight ready to harpoon some fish.
The Hurk takes his rather frightening record against the Mets to the mound tonight, while Tim Redding will try to contain Cantu.
The Marlins lost their last 3 September 8th games. The Mets won their last September 8th game (which was in 2007) after losing 4 in a row (2 of those losses to the Marlins in 2003 and 2004, both Josh Beckett wins).
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AWRIGHT!: Fish win 4-2.
The Marlins play 3 at Citi Field starting tonight. If you thought the Mets may be torn between giving the Marlins some payback for ruining their playoff hopes two years in a row, or holding back to get better positioning in the offseason player draft, your answer comes tonight in the form of Carlos Beltran, who returns to the Mets' starting lineup tonight ready to harpoon some fish.
The Hurk takes his rather frightening record against the Mets to the mound tonight, while Tim Redding will try to contain Cantu.
The Marlins lost their last 3 September 8th games. The Mets won their last September 8th game (which was in 2007) after losing 4 in a row (2 of those losses to the Marlins in 2003 and 2004, both Josh Beckett wins).
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AWRIGHT!: Fish win 4-2.
25 Games to Go
First bad news: Colorado won again on Monday, so the Marlins are now five-and-a-half-games back in the WC race.
Amazing that the Fish are seemingly Pythagorically out of it, with one less run scored than allowed up to this point in the season. But the possibility still lingers.
Let's set up the rest of the season, Wild-Card-wise...
Colorado has 24 more games in the regular season. The Rocks have a 4-0 record against Cincinatti in 2009 and they play the next 3 games against each other in Denver - last year the Rocks had a 2-1 record over the Reds in Coors Field.
* Then 3 games at San Diego, where CR has a 4-2 record in 2009.
* Next to San Fran for 3: this year Colorado has an overall 7-8 record against the Giants but they're 1-5 at AT&T Park.
* A day off, then to Arizona for 3: the Rockies this year are 9-6 against Arizona after sweeping them at home last week, but are 3-3 so far in Phoenix.
* Another day off and back home to play the Padres, where Colorado has a 4-2 record.
* Then St. Louis comes in for 3: the Rocks beat the Cardinals all 4 games they played in Busch Stadium this year (last year they split 4 in Denver).
* Then the Brewers finish up the Rockies' home stand; Colorado won all 3 games this year at Miller Park (and in 2008 they were 2-1 against Milwaukee at home).
* The Rockies play their last 3 games of the regular season at Los Angeles, where they have a 1-5 record against the Dodgers this year.
The Giants beat the Padres yesterdday, have now a 6-1 home record against the Padres this year, and have 2 more games against them at home.
* Then the Dodgers come in for 3 games; the two teams split the 6 games they have played this year in AT&T.
* The afore-mentioned series with the Rockies closes out the homestand.
* A day off, and then down they go for 3 in L.A., where the Giants are 2-4 against the Dodgers in 2009.
* Next the Giants, who are 8-4 against Arizona this year (4-2 both home and at Chase Field), will play the Diamondbacks for 6 games away and home, split up by a 4-game series at home against the Cubs and another day off.
* The Giants have only played the Cubs 2 games at Wrigley this year, and split 1-1 (last year they split 2-2 in Frisco).
* The Giants conclude the reg. season with 3 at San Diego, where they are a perfect 0-6 aaginst the Pads this year.
The Marlins start a 3-gamer with the Mets tonight at collapsing Citi Field, where so far the two teams have a 3-3 record against each other this year.
* Then all the way down to North Miami for 3 games against the Nationals, who haven't won a game in LandShark in 6 tries this year.
* Then all the way out to St. Louis - the Fish are 1-2 against the Cardinals in Miami this year and were 1-2 in Busch last year.
* Next will be the historical challenge of four games at the Great American Ballpark in Cincinatti, where the Fish have to fight an 8-game losing streak that goes back to April of 2006.
* The Marlins get a day off, then play 3 games in 2 days at home against the Phillies, who the Fish haven't been able to beat in 6 tries this year in Miami Gardens.
* Next the Mets come to visit for 3 games: Florida has a 4-2 record over the Mets at home in 2009.
* Then the Marlins travel to Atlanta for 3 - Florida's 4-2 in Atlanta this year.
* A day off to ponder.
* Then games 160, 161, and 162 in Philly, where the Marlins are 5-1 this season.
MORE: 'dcfish' gives a more-thorough look at the rest of the Marlins' season. (FishStripes)
Amazing that the Fish are seemingly Pythagorically out of it, with one less run scored than allowed up to this point in the season. But the possibility still lingers.
Let's set up the rest of the season, Wild-Card-wise...
Colorado has 24 more games in the regular season. The Rocks have a 4-0 record against Cincinatti in 2009 and they play the next 3 games against each other in Denver - last year the Rocks had a 2-1 record over the Reds in Coors Field.
* Then 3 games at San Diego, where CR has a 4-2 record in 2009.
* Next to San Fran for 3: this year Colorado has an overall 7-8 record against the Giants but they're 1-5 at AT&T Park.
* A day off, then to Arizona for 3: the Rockies this year are 9-6 against Arizona after sweeping them at home last week, but are 3-3 so far in Phoenix.
* Another day off and back home to play the Padres, where Colorado has a 4-2 record.
* Then St. Louis comes in for 3: the Rocks beat the Cardinals all 4 games they played in Busch Stadium this year (last year they split 4 in Denver).
* Then the Brewers finish up the Rockies' home stand; Colorado won all 3 games this year at Miller Park (and in 2008 they were 2-1 against Milwaukee at home).
* The Rockies play their last 3 games of the regular season at Los Angeles, where they have a 1-5 record against the Dodgers this year.
The Giants beat the Padres yesterdday, have now a 6-1 home record against the Padres this year, and have 2 more games against them at home.
* Then the Dodgers come in for 3 games; the two teams split the 6 games they have played this year in AT&T.
* The afore-mentioned series with the Rockies closes out the homestand.
* A day off, and then down they go for 3 in L.A., where the Giants are 2-4 against the Dodgers in 2009.
* Next the Giants, who are 8-4 against Arizona this year (4-2 both home and at Chase Field), will play the Diamondbacks for 6 games away and home, split up by a 4-game series at home against the Cubs and another day off.
* The Giants have only played the Cubs 2 games at Wrigley this year, and split 1-1 (last year they split 2-2 in Frisco).
* The Giants conclude the reg. season with 3 at San Diego, where they are a perfect 0-6 aaginst the Pads this year.
The Marlins start a 3-gamer with the Mets tonight at collapsing Citi Field, where so far the two teams have a 3-3 record against each other this year.
* Then all the way down to North Miami for 3 games against the Nationals, who haven't won a game in LandShark in 6 tries this year.
* Then all the way out to St. Louis - the Fish are 1-2 against the Cardinals in Miami this year and were 1-2 in Busch last year.
* Next will be the historical challenge of four games at the Great American Ballpark in Cincinatti, where the Fish have to fight an 8-game losing streak that goes back to April of 2006.
* The Marlins get a day off, then play 3 games in 2 days at home against the Phillies, who the Fish haven't been able to beat in 6 tries this year in Miami Gardens.
* Next the Mets come to visit for 3 games: Florida has a 4-2 record over the Mets at home in 2009.
* Then the Marlins travel to Atlanta for 3 - Florida's 4-2 in Atlanta this year.
* A day off to ponder.
* Then games 160, 161, and 162 in Philly, where the Marlins are 5-1 this season.
MORE: 'dcfish' gives a more-thorough look at the rest of the Marlins' season. (FishStripes)
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Sweep?
Anibal and J.D. Martin pitch today.
The Marlins lost last year after winning their previous three September 6th games. The Nats have won their last two September 6th games after losing the preceding five, including two losses against the Marlins.
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NO-NO-NUNEZ: It took 5 pitches for Leo to turn a 2-run lead into a 5-4 loss. Time to watch the scoreboards for the other games.
The Marlins lost last year after winning their previous three September 6th games. The Nats have won their last two September 6th games after losing the preceding five, including two losses against the Marlins.
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NO-NO-NUNEZ: It took 5 pitches for Leo to turn a 2-run lead into a 5-4 loss. Time to watch the scoreboards for the other games.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Watch Out! Today Is Livan's Day
You might be saying, "We've got Josh Johnson pitching tonight and Livan's getting a little long in the tooth if you know what I mean, so we should have no worries". Perhaps, but just for information's sake, Livan in his career has always won or been a part of a win whenever he's pitched on September 5. He has won outright against the Marlins twice on that date, in 2003 as an Expo and in 2005 as a National. He got the win in 9/5/2007 as a Diamondback against the Padres. And he pitched 7 innings and gave up only one run in an eventual win over Atlanta on 9/5/2004.
So far this year Livan's 1-0 with a 3.75 ERA against the Marlins.
September 5 has been one of those bad days for the Marlins. In their history they have a record of 3-10 on September 5. And the Marlins have never beaten the team now known as the Nats on that date - along with those 2 Livan wins, the Marlins have lost 3 other times to the Expos/Nationals on 9/5, in 2007 (Ayala got the win), in 1998, and in 1996.
The Marlins won last year on September 5, though. And the Nats lost on 9/5/2008 and 9/5/2006.
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NO-WORRIES: Livan gives up 6 earned runs in 5 innings and Josh does what Josh usually does. Marlins score at least 8 runs in a game for four straight games, which Glenn Geffner says the Marlins have never done before. Fish win 9-5.
So far this year Livan's 1-0 with a 3.75 ERA against the Marlins.
September 5 has been one of those bad days for the Marlins. In their history they have a record of 3-10 on September 5. And the Marlins have never beaten the team now known as the Nats on that date - along with those 2 Livan wins, the Marlins have lost 3 other times to the Expos/Nationals on 9/5, in 2007 (Ayala got the win), in 1998, and in 1996.
The Marlins won last year on September 5, though. And the Nats lost on 9/5/2008 and 9/5/2006.
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NO-WORRIES: Livan gives up 6 earned runs in 5 innings and Josh does what Josh usually does. Marlins score at least 8 runs in a game for four straight games, which Glenn Geffner says the Marlins have never done before. Fish win 9-5.
Friday, September 04, 2009
National Travesty
The Marlins went 5-5 in the homestand but managed to gain a game in the Wild Card race. Now they face the Washington Nationals, the Fish returning to the scene of the sweep that had the beat writers considering giving up on the Marlins back on August 7.
The Nats, on a 6-game losing streak and scoring only 3 runs in their last 38 innings, hope to feast on Sean West as they did the last time he pitched against them, while expecting another solid start from Garrett Mock.
I hope the news that the GCL Nationals beat the GCL Marlins for the GCL title yesterday doesn't either predict or inspire.
The Nats beat the Fish on 9/4/2007. In September 4th games the Marlins have gone W-L-W-L-W-L in their last six, while the Nats lost last year after winning three September 4ths in a row.
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WIN!: 9-6 Marlins.
The Nats, on a 6-game losing streak and scoring only 3 runs in their last 38 innings, hope to feast on Sean West as they did the last time he pitched against them, while expecting another solid start from Garrett Mock.
I hope the news that the GCL Nationals beat the GCL Marlins for the GCL title yesterday doesn't either predict or inspire.
The Nats beat the Fish on 9/4/2007. In September 4th games the Marlins have gone W-L-W-L-W-L in their last six, while the Nats lost last year after winning three September 4ths in a row.
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WIN!: 9-6 Marlins.
Accomplishments
Congrats to Mr. Coghlan for being named the NL Rookie Of The Month. (MLB)
And congrats to Mr. Ramirez for his nomination for this year's Roberto Clemente Award. (MLB)
And congrats to Mr. Uggla for reaching an historic pinnacle that only two other players have achieved, and no other player so early in their career. (MLB)
And congrats to Mr. Ramirez for his nomination for this year's Roberto Clemente Award. (MLB)
And congrats to Mr. Uggla for reaching an historic pinnacle that only two other players have achieved, and no other player so early in their career. (MLB)
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Series Finale
The Fighting Fish are in 'one big happy family' mode today, even as it was revealed that Wes and Hanley went at it last month.
Hanley's been a handful all year, maybe exacerbated by playing hurt for a chunk of the season, including being hit. He's been upset with Fredi, he's been upset with the organization, and probably more we may not want to hear.
Anyway, Jeremy's hurt too, so Nick Johnson (surprise) and Andy Gonzalez returns to the starting lineup in place of Hermida and Hanley. (Hopefully they can pick a fight with Hanley and start hitting home runs, too.)
Who's tossing the ball tonight? How about Tommy Hanson and Ricky Nolasco?
Florida beat the Braves last year on September 3rd. Both Florida and Atlanta have won 4 of their last 6 September 3rd games.
WEATHER-UPDATE: A bunch of rain fell on the stadium today - the radar looks better now (6 PM) than it did an hour ago, but we'll see.
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TA-DA: Fish win 8-3.
Hanley's been a handful all year, maybe exacerbated by playing hurt for a chunk of the season, including being hit. He's been upset with Fredi, he's been upset with the organization, and probably more we may not want to hear.
Anyway, Jeremy's hurt too, so Nick Johnson (surprise) and Andy Gonzalez returns to the starting lineup in place of Hermida and Hanley. (Hopefully they can pick a fight with Hanley and start hitting home runs, too.)
Who's tossing the ball tonight? How about Tommy Hanson and Ricky Nolasco?
Florida beat the Braves last year on September 3rd. Both Florida and Atlanta have won 4 of their last 6 September 3rd games.
WEATHER-UPDATE: A bunch of rain fell on the stadium today - the radar looks better now (6 PM) than it did an hour ago, but we'll see.
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TA-DA: Fish win 8-3.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Next Must-Win Game Tonight - Tension Ramps Up
There's reports of frustration with Hanley, especially fron Uggla, from Juan C.
Capozzi reports a closed-door meeting after Hanley's remarks about needing to be in the game with a '10 percent' hamstring sparked a shouting match with Dan. (Hanley's now out of the lineup).
The starters are to be The Hurk and Javier Vazquez.
After the game tonight, there'll be a look behind-the-scenes of a Marlins telecast, coincidentally occuring a week after the 70th anniversary of televised major-league baseball.
Atlanta has gone L-W-L-W-L-W in their last 6 September 2nd games. They beat the Fish last September 2nd in a wild game where former evil-Marlin Jorge Julio got his first win as a Brave. Before that loss, the Marlins had won their previous 4 September 2nd games.
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KEEP-EM-ANGRY: Dan smcks it deep, and Wes wallops the game-winner - Fish 8, Braves 7
Capozzi reports a closed-door meeting after Hanley's remarks about needing to be in the game with a '10 percent' hamstring sparked a shouting match with Dan. (Hanley's now out of the lineup).
The starters are to be The Hurk and Javier Vazquez.
After the game tonight, there'll be a look behind-the-scenes of a Marlins telecast, coincidentally occuring a week after the 70th anniversary of televised major-league baseball.
Atlanta has gone L-W-L-W-L-W in their last 6 September 2nd games. They beat the Fish last September 2nd in a wild game where former evil-Marlin Jorge Julio got his first win as a Brave. Before that loss, the Marlins had won their previous 4 September 2nd games.
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KEEP-EM-ANGRY: Dan smcks it deep, and Wes wallops the game-winner - Fish 8, Braves 7
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Game 2 of 4
Craig lists out the moves made by the Marlins on expanded-roster day.
An escapee from the memoribilia that was buried in the stadium had another day in court today.
Tonight's game features the return of Tim Hudson and hopefully the return to form of Anibal Sanchez.
Nasty storms surround the ballpark as of 5 PM today, we'll see if they blow away.
Florida beat Atlanta last year on September 1st. Atlanta has lost their last two September 1st games, while Florida has won their last six September 1st games.
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WEST-COAST-GAME: Game to start at 10PM ET.
DIGGING-A-HOLE: Dan shows again that he owns Soriano, but that was the bright spot. Marlins lose 4-3, are now 5 back in the WC - and Hanley has a tight hammy again.
An escapee from the memoribilia that was buried in the stadium had another day in court today.
Tonight's game features the return of Tim Hudson and hopefully the return to form of Anibal Sanchez.
Nasty storms surround the ballpark as of 5 PM today, we'll see if they blow away.
Florida beat Atlanta last year on September 1st. Atlanta has lost their last two September 1st games, while Florida has won their last six September 1st games.
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(CBSSports)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)
WEST-COAST-GAME: Game to start at 10PM ET.
DIGGING-A-HOLE: Dan shows again that he owns Soriano, but that was the bright spot. Marlins lose 4-3, are now 5 back in the WC - and Hanley has a tight hammy again.
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