Miami Marlins @ Philadelphia Phillies Game Preview: Saturday, May 4th 7:05 PM EST (Game 31)

Apr 29, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher

(16) throws against the New York Mets in the second inning at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

After dropping the first two games in the series, the Marlins will turn to their young phenom, Jose Fernandez. The Marlins will try to avoid another series loss behind Fernandez, who will be opposed by Cole Hamels of the Phillies.

The Marlins will need to provide some early run support to alleviate some pressure off of Fernandez, as he makes just his sixth major league start. The key for Jose will be his control, as he has walked eight hitters in his last 13 innings. Fernandez walked just three in his first 11 big league innings.

Pitching Matchup:

Projected Lineup

With the lefty Cole Hamels pitching for the Phillies, the Marlins have loaded up with right handed hitters. Juan Pierre is given the night off with Matt Diaz taking his spot in the lineup. With Pierre out of the lineup, the Marlins will have Solano in the lead-off role. Solano is hitting 15 hits in his last 41 plate appearances, all in the past 10 games. He hit his first homer of the season last night.

Update 5:47 PM: Donovan Solano was a late scratch from the Miami Marlins lineup.

Update: 6:10 PM: Solano scratched due to tightness in left side. Lineup updated.

Bold Prediction: Jose Fernandez is able to settle down and have a strong start, pitching six strong innings allowing just three hits, while striking out seven and walking just two. The Marlins offense won’t get much off of ace Cole Hamels, but will do enough to muster up two runs over seven innings of work from Hamels. Steve Cishek will pitch a perfect ninth, preserving a huge win for the Fish. Marlins win 3-1.