Marlins earn a split against the Braves with a 9-3 victory

The Fish came back today after last night’s blow out, and exacted revenge against the Braves with a 9-3 victory today at Marlins Park. Though the focus, understandably, was on the Marlins debut of speedy prospect Magneuris Sierra, ranked 6th in the organization by MLB Pipeline, the Fish were largely led by big hits from their veterans.

J.T. Realmuto went 1 for 3 with a two-run homer in the first inning, and had 4 RBIs on the day.

Starlin Castro hit a three-run shot of his own in the fifth to put the game away by giving Miami a 9-3 lead.

Brian Anderson added three singles and scored three runs to represent the Marlins youngsters.

Magneuris Sierra didn’t have the most auspicious debut, going 0 for 4 with two strikeouts, but at least he got his feet wet, and given the Marlins outfield injuries, he will likely have many more chances to shine in the upcoming weeks. He did flash the leather in center field, though:

On the mound, Wei-Yin Chen’s Dr. Jekyll act at home continued. Indeed, a quality start for Chen (6 innings, 5 hits, 3 runs) was just what the doctor ordered, and the light-hitting pitcher even contributed a double and scored a run.

As for the Braves, their defense committed three errors, and starter Julio Teheran was tagged for all 9 runs (7 earned) in 4.1 innings of work.

Dansby Swanson lookalike Charlie Culberson had a two-run double while Johan Camargo added a solo shot to account for Atlanta’s three runs.

Castro got a special token of the team’s appreciation for his efforts in the form of a new “MVP of the Game Chain” that honors the memory of Jose Fernandez.

The Marlins improved their season record against Atlanta to 3-6, and will play the Braves 10 more times between next Monday and the end of August. The Fish will go on the road to play the Braves in a three-game set next week.

Next up for the Fish? A day off tomorrow, and then they will welcome the Washington Nationals to south Florida for a four game series on Thursday night. Dan Straily will be on the mound, possibly showcasing himself before the trade deadline.

Attendance: 21,673 (including many screaming campers)

fangraphs.com

King Fish: Starlin Castro with the big three run homer and the receiver of the bling

Flounder: Julio Teheran

Turning Point: J.T.’s first inning homer that set the tone

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Probable Pitching Matchup

Today’s Lineups

Matchup Summary

The biggest news in today’s game is that Magneuris Sierra will make his Marlins debut today in center field, batting eighth. Expect speed and a slap hitting approach that can be electric.

On the mound, if there is a perfect example of “home is where the heart is”, it’s Wei-Yin Chen. If he could replicate his numbers at Marlins Park throughout all of baseball, then he would be considered one of the National League’s best pitchers. His home numbers include a FIP of 3.11, a WHIP of 1.07, and an opponent’s slugging percentage of a mere .296. In terms of his away stats? Best left unsaid.

He will be facing Julio Teheran, who is having a solid season with a lifetime record of 5-3 with an ERA of 3.04 at Marlins Park. Who will win this battle of Marlins Park “aces”? We will find out in an afternoon affair in Miami.

Game Thread Question: How will Magneuris Sierra do in his Marlins’ debut?