Miami Marlins Offense Continues To Struggle In Loss To New York Mets

Feb 26, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Ricky Nolasco (47) throws in the second inning during a spring training game against the New York Mets at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Yesterday the Miami Marlins faced one of, if not, their biggest rival, the New York Mets in their fourth meeting of this year’s spring baseball. The Marlins, who have held the advantage in the win column this spring against New York, looked to continue their undefeated streak against the Mets during Spring Training. During the course of Spring Training, the Marlins were able to hold a record of 2-0-1 against the Mets; however, yesterday the Marlins saw their loss total against the Mets creep up to one. Now, I know that it is Spring Training and the games technically don’t count; but it is never fun to lose a game, especially if it is against one of your top rivals.

The game, which began at 1:10 P.M., showcased the Marlins opening day starting pitcher, Ricky Nolasco matching up against the young talented 23 year old righty of the Mets, Matt Harvey.

Feb 15, 2013; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets pitcher Jonathan Niese during spring training at Legends Field. Mandatory Credit: John Munson/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

Harvey, who said he wants to have a significant role in the rotation this season, proved to everyone that he can play with the big leaguers. In his 4 1/3 innings pitched, Harvey was nearly perfect, striking out five batters, while tossing 35 strikes on 48 pitches. Also, Harvey’s only base runner reached off an error. After his previous outing, Harvey was disappointed in himself, after he proceeded to give up a run and three hits in just 2 1/3. Harvey, who was looking to bounce back with a strong performance on the mound against the fish yesterday, did just that.

"“After looking at last week’s poor strike-to-ball ratio, I definitely wanted to go out and pound the zone. All the guys, they made every play, so throwing strikes was kind of easy when they are out there making every play,” Harvey said."

Ricky Nolasco also impressed in his performance yesterday, giving up just one earned run, off of three hits. Although that might not seem very impressive, Nolasco was able to strike out six batters in 3 2/3 innings.

The Marlins might have some concern offensively as they have been unable to put together runs over the past two games. On Wednesday, the Marlins were blown out by the St. Louis Cardinals. In that game, the offense was only able to knock in two runs. Yesterday, the Marlins only run came off a solo shot from J.T. Realmuto in the ninth inning.  Unlike the Marlins, the Mets had their bats going throughout the game, finishing with nine hits, which included a double by Ike Davis and a fifth inning bomb by outfielder Matt den Dekker.

Hopefully the Marlins can get back in the win column today as they are set to face the injury filled New York Yankees at 1:05 PM. The Yanks will send righty Adam Warren to the mound, while the Marlins will go with the young and very talented Nathan Eovaldi.

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