Spring Training 2013 Recap: Miami Marlins 7, New York Mets 5

The Miami Marlins clawed out another victory in their young spring training season, this time defeating the New York Mets 7-5 at Roger Dean Stadium. The Marlins took this game primarily on the back of their offense, and in particular thanks to a trio of home runs from one very likely source and two unlikely sources. The pitching staff threw well for the most part, and the game ended up closer than it actually was thanks to a meaningless three-run eighth inning by the Mets.

Trio of Home Runs

Giancalo Stanton hit a home run off of a 0-2 pitch from Hansel Nobles in the sixth inning, one of two home runs in that inning for the Fish. Stanton got behind in the count and received a fastball up the middle, a rare opportunity for him to strike given his status as clear and present threat on the Marlins' roster. Nevertheless, this time out, he took the opportunity and sent out a solo shot, and he picked up his first home run of the young 2013 season. Matt Downs later hit a home run of his own that inning that helped to seal the deal for the Fish.

But the home run that really broke the game open happened right in the first inning versus Mets starter Jenry Mejia. Mejia gave up an error on a Juan Pierre bunt that later turned into a run thanks to a Placido Polanco single. Rob Brantly and Austin Kearns found their way on base as well before Kotchman, who was recovering from a lacerated finger thanks to a run-in with the pop up machine, launched one down the left field line and gave the club an early five-run cushion that the club never relented.

Here's manager Mike Redmond's take on the day, complete with highlights of Stanton's and Kotchman's home runs.

Not much to say other than to be impressed. Stanton's home run looked like a no-doubter off the bat based on how the center fielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis responded. Kotchman's also looked pretty majestic down the right field line.

Next: Wednesday, February 27, @ Washington Nationals,