Stowers Feels Frustrations From Marlins’ 12-Game Losing Streak

MIAMI, Fla. – It’s no secret the Miami Marlins are slipping in the National League standings. After having firm control of the final Wild Card spot, they’ve fallen out of the playoff picture – three games out – behind the San Diego Padres, St. Louis Cardinals, Washington Nationals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Marlins have lost a franchise record 12 consecutive games dating back to July 10. Despite the rough stretch, it isn’t as bad as it appears. In 11 of the past 12 games, the Marlins have lost by no more than three runs. They have carved out leads in six matchups but failed to sustain them.

Following Sunday’s 5-3 loss to the Padres, Marlins first baseman Kyle Stowers shared that it’s “no secret” the streak is on everyone’s mind. During the stretch, last year’s All-Star hasn’t been explosive stepping up to the plate. He’s batted .178 with a .534 OPS, including eight hits in 45 at-bats, two doubles, one home run, and three runs batted in.

“It feels like we’re playing roulette and somehow it's hit red 12 times in a row,” Stowers said.

The Marlins will host a three-game home series against the Philadelphia Phillies (July 27-29). Interim manager Don Mattingly, Bryce Harper and the team will enter LoanDepot Park with a 57-49 record – 4-6 in the last 10 games. There might not be a greater opponent to snap a 12-game losing streak than a division rival.

Stowers believes the Marlins’ production has been “good enough” to win, but it’s come down to one play that makes the difference. However, no hope is lost within the clubhouse. The Marlins are still well within reach of the final Wild Card spot. Reclaiming it will be easier said than done, given the schedule for the rest of the season.

According to Tankathon, the Marlins have the seventh-highest strength of schedule in the league. In August, they will face the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, Phillies, Nationals (two series), and Boston Red Sox. The Marlins will likely have to approach the Aug. 3 trade deadline aggressively to get over the hump.

Landing a third baseman and a relief pitcher have been viewed as the biggest needs.

Stowers, along with the rest of the clubhouse, isn’t too focused on the playoff picture. He emphasized that the priority is to win the next game and bounce back from this obscure stretch. It might take reinforcements to overcome the damage done, but it starts with the leaders, including Stowers.

A baseball season can flip at any moment – for better or worse.

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Anthony Aguirre is a Miami Marlins writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports