Marlins vs. Rockies: Start time, how to watch, game thread and Fish Picks—March 31, 2019

Through the years, Fish Stripes has hosted a “game within the game” during the Marlins regular season. Gives us a distraction from low-quality baseball, presenting an opportunity to win even when the team gets blown out.

The concept will survive into 2019, but under a new name and format. Icthyomancy is out, “Fish Picks” is in.

I posted the full introduction toward the end of Spring Training.

The Grapefruit League prop bets were just for fun. That changes now—the monthly points leader for March/April, May, June, etc. wins Fish Stripes merchandise prizes.

The Fish Picks leaderboard will update daily to let you know where you stand.

Rockies Lineup

1. RF Charlie Blackmon
2. CF David Dahl
3. 3B Nolan Arenado
4. SS Trevor Story
5. 2B Ryan McMahon
6. 1B Mark Reynolds
7. LF Raimel Tapia
8. C Tony Wolters
9. P Jon Gray

Notes: Daniel Murphy fractured his left index finger while fielding a grounder at second base. He had a quiet series prior to that (1-for-10, .200 OPS).

Marlins Lineup

1. LF Rosell Herrera
2. 3B Brian Anderson
3. 1B Neil Walker
4. 2B Starlin Castro
5. C Jorge Alfaro
6. SS JT Riddle
7. RF Peter O’Brien
8. CF Lewis Brinson
9. P Sandy Alcantara

Notes: Barely a week after Garrett Cooper beat out O’Brien for an Opening Day roster spot, the right-handed sluggers are trading places. The Marlins placed Cooper on the 10-day injured list with a left calf strain and recalled O’Brien from Triple-A New Orleans. SiriusXM/Five Reasons Sports Network host Craig Mish adds that Cooper may be looking at an extended absence...The bullpen has tossed 11 innings already in this series and could use some length from Alcantara...Nice work by the pitching staff in Saturday’s win:

How to watch/listen/follow

The Marlins seek their first win beginning at 1:10 p.m. ET. Watch on FOX Sports Florida and via MLB.TV or listen on 940 WINZ.

Fish Picks

Please comment below or tweet to @fishstripes with your picks for the following props. The contest locks at first pitch.

1. Will Peter O’Brien play the entire game? (Yes/No)
2. Over/Under 8.5 Marlins hits? (Over/Under)
3. Who wins? (Rockies/Marlins)