NL East Notes: Jose Fernandez Fails to Set Franchise Record

The news around Jose Fernandez always seems to be about his injuries and/or want to be in Miami. However, yesterday he put his all that on the back burner and let everyone talk about his record. The record for most consecutive starts won is eight and previously held by Chris Hammond, he set the record in 1993. The 1993 Marlins finished 64-98 that year and Hammond could not keep up the success he had from May 26th to July 2nd, his final stat line was 11-12 with a 4.66 ERA.

Of course Fernandez has been, is, and forever will be a better pitcher than Hammond but he is not worried about any records. Fernandez said in an article by Clark Spencer in the Miami Herald "I'm not here to break records, I'm here to win ballgames and give us a good chance to win."

Fernandez started the season 1-2 with a 4.37 ERA but has gone 8-0 with a 1.38 ERA since then. Fernandez has always had electric stuff but he has been both nervous before games and maxing out his stuff early. Don Mattingly said "I think he's emotional, that hasn't changed, but I think he's been more calm before his starts." Mattingly also said Fernandez is changing speeds, "Being able to use a 92 [mph] fastball and then go to 96 or 97. It's like having two different fastballs instead of just using one." However, after 5 strong innings of no hit ball Fernandez gave up 4 in the 6th which lead to the loss.

Even though he is not a free agent until 2019 you always have to talk about Fernandez and whether he will stay in Miami or if management thinks about moving him. Personally, I think he should be signed to an extension ASAP but most likely he will be traded. The Marlins would be idiotic if they moved him before his contract year because a pitcher of his value they need to be able to max out his time. Obviously it's to early to talk about life with Jose but when you think about the signs pointing to him leaving it makes you appreciate him, his ability, and overall great attitude toward the game of baseball much more.

News from around the NL East

Phillies Vincent Velasquez heads to 15 day DL, Zach Eflin to debut

Phillies take High School Outfielder Mickey Moniak number 1

Stephen Strasburg becomes MLB's first 10 game winner

Braves recall infielder Jace Peterson from Gwinnett

Mets activate Kelly Johnson, option Ty Kelly to Vegas