Marlins Searching for Answers Before All-Star Break

For the second time in July, the Miami Marlins (52-44) have dropped the first two games of a series, falling 4-1 to the Cleveland Guardians (50-46) on Saturday at loanDepot park.

Miami’s lone run came off the bat of Liam Hicks, who delivered a two-out RBI single in the seventh inning.

Hicks’ bloop hit dropped just over the head of the Guardians shortstop, allowing Joe Mack to score and cutting Cleveland’s lead to 2-1.

The Marlins struggled to generate consistent offense throughout the afternoon, recording just one run against a Cleveland pitching staff that has been one of the more reliable units in baseball over the past several seasons.

Miami was held in check early, with the Guardians limiting scoring opportunities and forcing the Marlins to rely on late-inning chances to mount a comeback.

Following the defeat, manager Clayton McCullough spoke with reporters about the challenges the Marlins have faced during the opening 18 innings of the series.

“They have good pitching. This is what has been winning them a lot of games over the years,” McCullough said.

McCullough added that right-hander Tyler Phillips will serve as the opener Sunday in the final game of the homestand and the first half of the season for the club.

"We're gonna open Tyler Phillips tomorrow and go bullpen the rest of the way," McCullough noted.  

It has been a notable first half for Phillips, who transitioned from a bullpen role into the starting rotation after injuries to right-handers Janson Junk and Eury Pérez created an opportunity.

Phillips’ latest start saw the tall right-hander deliver five shutout innings on 71 pitches July 8 against the Seattle Mariners at loanDepot park.

Phillips has taken advantage of the increased responsibility, providing the Marlins with valuable innings during a stretch when the club needed additional help in the rotation.

His ability to transition between roles has given Miami another option as the team navigates injuries and manages its pitching staff.

Saturday's loss puts the Marlins in a difficult position heading into Sunday’s series finale, as the club looks to avoid being swept for the first time since May 29-31 against the New York Mets at Citi Field.

As the Marlins prepare for Sunday’s finale, the focus will be on finishing the first half on a positive note. A win would allow Miami to enter the All-Star break with momentum while continuing to position itself in the National League playoff race.

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