Marlins links, 5/21/18: Marlins lose game and PR battle, Brinson’s 1st grand slam

Marlins blow the game in the ninth inning

Photo by Mike Zarrilli/Getty Images

After a decent outing from Wei-Yin Chen, the Marlins had a sizable lead heading into the ninth inning, but weren't able to finish it off. Thanks to some poor pitching and some untimely defensive mistakes, Brad Ziegler and Tayron Guerrero gave up a combined six runs. Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson delivered the knockout blow with two outs.

Wasting what was one of the best offensive performances by the Marlins, this was among the most painful losses of the season. The 20-1 annihilation in Philadelphia might belong in the conversation, too. The Marlins scored nine runs, seven courtesy of the long ball. Miguel Rojas had two home runs and Lewis Brinson had one of his own.

Sweet Lew hits first career grand slam

The only doubt about Brinson’s blast was fair or foul, because distance wasn’t an issue. Statcast estimate it at 450 feet.

The rookie center fielder hasn’t been hitting well at the plate for the month (10-for-59 in May, a .169 batting average). Hopefully his grand slam is a sign of things to come.

Braves series summary

Marlin Maniac hands out grades to the key contributors and underachievers from this past weekend.

Andy Slater denied press credentials

The 940 WINZ personality accompanied attorney Laurence Leavy (AKA Marlins Man) to the British Virgin Islands last month. Slater and Leavy were poking fun at the team’s claim that it had certain legal exemptions as an “international” corporation.

Turns out that the Marlins were not amused by the stunt. During an interview on The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, Slater says media relations denied his routine request for credentials.

Cade Gotta crushing the Southern League

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp outfielder Cade Gotta has been named the Southern League’s latest Player of the Week. Considered a depth player in the organization, Gotta continues to impress since signing a minor league deal in the spring.

For more on the hottest Marlins prospects, read the Fish Stripes recap of each affiliate.

Marlins visit the Big Apple

Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The Marlins open a series tonight against the Mets and are eager to put yesterday’s loss behind them.

Elieser Hernández will be on the mound for his second career start. Old friend Jason Vargas takes the ball for the Mets. Vargas is 0-3 on the season with an ERA above 13—this is the type of pitcher the Marlins should have some success against.

First pitch is at 7:10pm ET.