Marlins Clinch Second Series Win of 2013, Beat Mets 8-1

May 31, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins first baseman Greg Dobbs (left) is greeted by teammate third baseman Placido Polanco (right) after scoring a run in the seventh inning against the New York Mets at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

On Saturday night, everything clicked for the Marlins. Jose Fernandez was on his game, the offense knew how to hit and score runs, and the stars aligned to allow the Marlins to clinch their second series win since winning the three-game set against the Mets a month ago.

Fernandez pitched seven strong shutout innings, and looked as if he could go more if needed. With the Marlins taking an 8-run lead in the 7th inning, however, manager Mike Redmond pulled Fernandez from the game. On the night, the young phenom left having allowed just 3 hits over his 7 innings of work, striking out 8 while walking just 1. impressively, Fernandez’s pitch count was at just 87 when he was pulled. Fernandez also added two hits, including his first career double, which also plated a run.

Marcell Ozuna’s hit streak ended at 16 games, though Chris Coghlan’s was extended to 8 games. Coghlan saw just 9 pitches in the game, but still went 3-for-4, including two RBI singles. Besides Ozuna, Juan Pierre was the only Marlins not to record a hit, and Adeiny Hechavarria was the only Marlin not to score a run. Derek Dietrich added Hechavarria and Coghlan as players with 2 RBI.

The Marlins went 4-for-12 with runners in scoring position, which has been their Achilles’ Heel all season long. It was certainly an improvement, though the team still left seven men on base.

Up next: The Marlins will attempt to complete their first sweep of the season, but they won’t have an easy path. Rookie of the Year candidate Matt Harvey takes the bump against Kevin Slowey 1:10 PM.