Junk Returns From IL, Completes Marlins Rotation Repair

MIAMI — One of the many reasons why the Miami Marlins enter the MLB All-Star Break in a favorable position is that the starting rotation is completely intact. 

The only difference to the Marlins rotation on Opening Day is Tyler Phillips replacing Chris Paddack, which turned out to be a massive improvement. 

The rotation repair was completed on Thursday with Janson Junk returning to pitch a solid start in the Marlins’ 8-4 win over the Seattle Mariners. Junk allowed only two runs (one earned) in five innings in his return from the 15-day injured list. 

“I think that's the overall message of the day is getting back to the team,” Junk said during his postgame press conference. “We're winning, we're playing good ball. Fundamentals are great, timely hitting, good pitching. Everything is going in a good direction right now, and I'm so happy to be a part of it.”

Junk retired eight of his final nine batters to conclude his 79-pitch outing, but the outing came with a rocky start. He issued back-to-back walks to open the game. The Marlins' poor defense allowed the Mariners to earn a 1-0 lead in the second inning, after Josh Naylor reached on a pop-up and scored after stealing bases and dodging errant throws. 

His only earned run came on a solo home run by Randy Arozarena, but with strong run support, Junk left with a solid performance. 

“Instead of letting it boil over, I think I did a good job kind of bouncing back and not letting it affect me, even though it's an embarrassing moment,” Junk said. “When you think about it, it's not fun. But at the same time, I know they're not getting good contact on me. Let's just keep going, get back to the game plan and attack, and focus on that.”

The Marlins (52-42) have completed two consecutive series sweeps on their way to improving to 10 games over .500 and are tied with the Philadelphia Phillies for the second National League Wild Card spot. The last time the Marlins had such a good record was on July 17, 2023, their last run to the postseason. 

Junk was placed on the IL with right shin bone inflammation before his next scheduled start in Toronto on May 28. Given that the Marlins’ run came shortly after Junk went on the injured list, the righty could not wait to get back on the mound. 

“That was the biggest thing, just getting back with the team and being a part of this winning ballclub,” Junk said. “It’s just exhilarating. It makes coming to the field that much better. Seeing the way the boys were playing, it was unfortunate I was seeing it from afar, but I was so excited for them, seeing the way they were rolling, and I couldn't be more excited getting back with the team.”

The Marlins will look to complete a third consecutive series sweep over American League opponents with the Cleveland Guardians coming to town on Friday.

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