Series Preview: Miami Marlins vs Philadelphia Phillies

Feb 22, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher

(59) poses for a picture during photo day at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Marlins will open up a four-game series against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Ballpark tonight.  Game one of the series begins tonight at 7:05.  The Marlins come in with an 8-20 season record but have shown signs of life recently taking two of three from the Mets in Miami.  The Phillies, who have a season record of 12-16, are coming off a recent shellacking by the Indians who swept the two game series in Cleveland.

Starting pitchers for tonight’s game features the Marlins’ Alex Sanabia (2-3, 4.85 ERA) going up against the Phillies’ Kyle Kendrick (2-1, 2.41 ERA).

This game will signify the return of Placido Polanco to his old stomping grounds in Philly. Polanco played for the Phillies from 2002-05 and 2010-12.  Hopefully the fish will pull this one out but their job won’t be easy as Kendrick has been stellar so far this season.

Mar 17, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher

(47) throws in the first inning during a spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Game two will feature Ricky Nolasco (2-2, 3.82 ERA) against Jonathan Pettibone (1-0, 4.35 ERA).  Nolasco will be looking to continue his winning streak having won his previous two starts.  Also of note, Nolasco is 6-1 at Citizens Bank Ballpark with a 2.98 ERA.  Pettibone will be looking to get his second win of the season.

Apr 13, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher

(16) is being interviewed after the Marlins defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Game three will see Jose Fernandez (0-2, 4.50 ERA) go against Cole Hamels (1-3, 4.78 ERA).  Hopefully the Marlins’ bats can get busy and Jose can get his first win this season.  Hamels will be going for win #2 of this season having won his previous start against the Mets.

Apr 8, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher

(45) throws agains the Atlanta Braves on opening night at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The final game will feature Kevin Slowey (0-2, 2.15 ERA) against ace Roy Halladay (2-3, 6.75 ERA).  Slowey will continue his bid to become the most underrated pitcher in the majors while Halladay, with his abysmal 6.75 ERA, is on par to win the most overrated pitcher award this season.

Till next time kids.

Go Marlins!!!!