The Marlins are 1-9 in recent action and have lost 2 straight to the Phillies. They scored three runs yesterday, which was their highest total in ten games. They have their ace on the mound today which normally would have been a great opportunity to stop the bleeding. Alcantara has already pitched nearly 200 innings this year, and isn't pitching quite as well, with an ERA of over four in his last seven starts, nor does he pitch quite as deep into games lately. His ERA is higher on the road. The Phillies are the rare team that has had success against him in the past.
The Philies are just 5-5 lately, and need the sweep to keep in the play-off race. They are hitting very welll, especially for average lately. Gibson starts for the Phillies today. He was blown out of the water in his last game, but has been a very effective pitcher this season and was 3-1 in August with a 2.30 ERA including a solid start vs the Marlins. After such a short start, he will at least be well-rested.
The Marlins recent offense is woeful at .182/.506, and they have had little success vs the Phillies. I expect Gibson to bounce back form his last start, and possibly a sub-par performance from Alcantara. The Marlins bullpen has struggled in recent games, with an ERA of over six in their last five games. Take the Phillies to win .