The Florida Marlins are a tough team to figure. They held their own against the Braves and Phillies the first two months of the season, but then had their historically awful month of June where they won just four games. Since that rough month, the team has been one of the better teams in baseball and are playing good baseball. Let's take a closer look at the 52-53 Marlins.
So you think you've got power:
Mike Stanton might have the most raw power of any player in baseball, and he's just 21-years old. He ranks near the top of all sluggers in terms of average distance on his home runs and he has hit some majestic bombs this season. If there is a downside to Stanton it would be his plate discipline. Known to be somewhat of a free-swinger, he strikes out more than he'd like to (27.6%) and could stand talk walk a bit more (9.5%). I doubt the Marlins are too upset, though. This kid can hit and will chance a game with just one swing of the bat.
Pitching matchups:
Friday, 7:35EDT - Brandon Beachy vs. Clay Hensley
Saturday, 7:10EDT - Tim Hudson vs. Anibal Sanchez
Sunday, 1:35EDT - Tommy Hanson vs. Ricky Nolasco
Bullpen:
Leo Nunez headlines a bullpen that has been pretty solid this year. Guys like Edward Mujica, Burke Badenhop, Steve Cishek, Mike Dunn and Randy Choate have all worked to shape up a 'pen that has been one of the worst in baseball the last few seasons.
Final words...
This will be a tough series for the Braves. The Marlins have won five in a row and our offense isn't exactly clicking at this point. The pitching matchups are in our favor, but Florida features a tough lineup capable of putting runs on the scoreboard.