:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60555601/484850303.0.0.0.jpg)
Having ended their eight game losing streak with an 11-2 victory over the Nationals on Tuesday night, the Miami Marlins will look to win the series as Jose Fernandez takes the mound in the final game of the three game set. The Marlins' offense will have to support Fernandez, who struggled throughout his last start.
Pitching Matchup
| PROJ ERA | FIP | ERA | MARLINS | Nationals | ERA | FIP | PROJ ERA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.60 | 2.23 | 3.78 | Fernandez | Roark | 5.91 | 4.82 | 4.27 |
Jose Fernandez is coming off of one of the worst starts in his young career, a four inning performance against the Phillies during which he gave up six runs. Despite the apparent struggles, most of Fernandez's pitches were strikes. He gave up one run in 12 and two third innings his previous two outings, and should be able use his repetoire to his advantage against Washington.
Tanner Roark gave up five runs in four and two third innings against the Braves in his last start. He went six innings and gave up two runs facing the Mets in his first start of 2014.
Lineups
Marcell Ozuna remains in the two spot for the Marlins, who scored 11 times on Tuesday night. Manager Mike Redmond is using the same lineup, hopeful that Miami can continue to score runs. Giancarlo Stanton was a key part of the Marlins' success on Tuesday, and Casey McGehee and Garrett Jones must get on base for the Marlins' offense to be productive.
For the Nationals, Nate McLouth remains in center field against the right-handed Fernandez, and Jose Lobaton will catch Tanner Roark.
Notes
-Can the Marlins' offense stay hot? Miami scored 11 runs on Tuesday, and support for Fernandez would be beneficial.
-How will Fernandez bounce back? After a rough outing, Fernandez should be able to regain his composure and become the strikeout machine baseball has become familiar with.
Bold Prediction: Marlins def. Nationals 5-2