Marlins Drop Series to Giants, Alcantara and Luzardo Struggle

In a weekend series against the San Francisco Giants, the Miami Marlins were unable to come out on top, losing two out of three games. The series highlighted some ongoing struggles for the Marlins’ starting pitchers, specifically Sandy Alcantara and Jesús Luzardo.

Game one saw reigning NL Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara continues to struggle on the mound. Alcantara surrendered four runs in 5.2 innings, bringing his season record to a disappointing 1-5. Despite Alcantara’s struggles, Luis Arraez provided a bright spot for the Marlins, going 3-4 at the plate. However, it was Bryan de La Cruz who accounted for all three RBI, hitting a crucial double and a solo home run in the eighth inning. Despite their efforts, the Marlins fell short, losing the game 4-3.

The second game of the series was marked by exceptional pitching performances from both teams. Marlins’ starter Braxton Garret delivered one of the best outings by a Miami starting pitcher this year. Garret went 6.2 innings, allowing no runs while striking out eight and giving up just one hit. In the eighth inning, Jon Berti’s RBI single provided the Marlins with their only run of the night. Thanks to a strong showing from the bullpen, which allowed only two hits in three innings, the Marlins were able to shut out the Giants and secure a much-needed 1-0 victory.

Unfortunately for the Marlins, the rubber match on Sunday did not end in their favor as they lost 7-5. Jesús Luzardo, who had shown promise earlier in the year, struggled on the mound, allowing six runs in five innings pitched. Luzardo’s season record dropped to 3-3, and his ERA climbed to 3.83. Despite the loss, Jorge Soler had an impressive performance, going 4-5 with a home run and three RBI on Sunday.

With the series loss, the Marlins now hold a 24-23 record and find themselves in third place in the NL East and on the outside looking in on the Wild Card picture. Their previous 1.5-game lead over the Mets has evaporated as the Mets have won five consecutive games. The Marlins’ weekend series against the Giants exposed some ongoing struggles in their starting rotation. Sandy Alcantara’s continued difficulties and Jesús Luzardo’s recent performance raise concerns about the team’s ability to compete. As the Marlins aim to stay in the playoff race, their star pitchers must find a way to improve and regain their dominance on the mound.

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