Miami Marlins at Pittsburgh Pirates: Three stories to watch

Is Starting Worley Worth It?

Lastly, let’s take a look at the pitching equivalent of a punt; Miami Marlins spot starter Vance Worley.

It’s entirely possible things will work out.

But that is just about the kindest thing that can be said about the veteran righty. In three starts, he’s never made it out of the fifth inning. He has allowed six hits in two of those appearances, and his season ERA rests at a disconcerting 6.59.

Those aren’t fantastic numbers. And while a close study of the box scores show that he’s never been outright responsible for a loss, the Marlins should have better options.

Mainly, I’m curious why it wouldn’t make more sense to move Dan Straily up a day, and start Justin Nicolino as soon as he is eligible to return Saturday.

The Fish could even hold on to Worley for the weekend- moving Brian Ellington or Nick Wittgren down for a couple days- in case one of those starts is cut short. But both Straily and Nicolino have better potential for success from the start than Worley does. Worley seems a lock to tax a bullpen that is still getting over the workout it received the last two games at Wrigley.

Next: Marlins Sign A Poor Man's Worley

This is a huge start for Worley and the Marlins. A good outing might muddy the waters, with anything less possibly leading to this being his final appearance with the Marlins.