Marlins vs. Astros Game Preview 3/3/14

Sep 8, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Jacob Turner (33) throws the ball in the second inning against the Washington Nationals at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Today, the Miami Marlins will take on the Houston Astros at Roger Dean Stadium in a matchup of the two worst records in baseball last year. This may seem like a game that is not that interesting given the two teams involved, but both teams have been intent on building their farm system over the last two years, and are expecting to see results sooner than later.

Miami is currently 3-1 this spring, and they are coming off of their first loss of the spring yesterday to the Washington Nationals. Houston is 2-1.

This game is particularly noteworthy for Marlins’ fans due to the fact that we will get a chance to see Jacob Turner pitch. Turner is currently penciled in as the number 4 starter on this team, but his position is certainly the most tenuous of the current so-called “locks”. A bad spring could force the Marlins front office to explore other options for Turner. Turner will face Houston Astros starting pitcher Dallas Keuchel.

The game is at 1:05pm EST and will not be televised. Their will be a radio broadcast for the Astros that will be on KBME 790 for those wanting to listen to the game.

Here is the starting lineup for the Marlins:

Rafael Furcal – 2B
Christian Yelich – LF
Giancarlo Stanton – RF
Garrett Jones – 1B
Jeff Baker – DH
Casey McGehee – 3B
Jake Marisnick – CF
Adeiny Hechavarria – SS
Jeff Mathis – C

Jacob Turner – P

One thing of note with this starting lineup. We have been monitoring the center field position for the Marlins this spring. Many thought that Marcell Ozuna was the front-runner due to his performance last year, coupled with his play in the Dominican League this winter. That sentiment may be changing, and this lineup is certainly interesting. While it, by no means, says that Marisnick is the man in center field, it is interesting that this is basically the Marlins starting lineup (Mathis will play once or twice a week) and that Marisnick is starting in center field. It is certainly something that we will keep an eye on moving forward. We will certainly give you updates about their position battles and how each one ends up playing.