Miami Marlins @ Atlanta Braves Game Preview: Thursday, July 4th 7:10 PM EST (Game 84)

The Miami Marlins pulled off an impressive win on Wednesday, in what could have been the final start for Ricky Nolasco as a Marlin. Nolasco struck out seven in seven innings of work, including his 1000th career strikeout. He positioned the Marlins well to pick up their fourth straight series win and their fifth in their last six.

Henderson Alvarez will make his 2013 and Marlins debut tonight. Alvarez was a key component in the Marlins blockbuster trade with the Blue Jays. Alvarez briefly pitched for the Marlins during the spring, before pitching for Venezuela in the WBC. Shoulder issues sidelined Alvarez the day before the season and he missed the first two months of the season.

The Braves will counter with Julio Teheran. A strong arugement could be made for Teheran being the Braves best starter in 2013, as the rookie pitcher owns a nice 3.12 ERA.

Neither pitcher has squared off against either team, so there could be a feeling out process during the first few at bats.

Probable Starters

Mar 26, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Henderson Alvarez (37) throws in the fourth inning during a spring training game against the Washington Nationals at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Jun 28, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Julio Teheran (49) throws a pitch against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the fourth inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Marlins Lineup

Bold Prediction: Behind a strong first outing of the season from Alvarez, the Marlins will be able to finish off a series victory against the Braves. Marlins win 5-2!