The Miami Marlins played to a 2-2 tie on Sunday in Viera after tying the Washington Nationals in the ninth inning. As is customary in the Spring, the two teams agreed to play one extra inning before calling it a day. With the exception of Ryan Webb, every Miami pitcher to take the mound did a fine job including two electric innings from Evan Reed. The major league relief hopeful struck out three in two scoreless innings of work.
The majority of the Marlins’ lineup was comprised of guys expected to be sent to minor-league camp in the coming weeks but one regular did start as Rob Brantly made his Spring debut behind the plate. There were a handful of guys that could win bench roles including former Rookie of the Year, Chris Coghlan who went 0-2 with a run batted in. Jake Jefferies who has an outside chance of landing the backup catcher role following Jeff Mathis’ injury on Saturday went 0-2 with a run batted in.
Henderson Alvarez who the Marlins acquired in the well known Toronto trade went two scoreless innings to start off the game setting the pace for a remarkable day on the Miami pitching side of the field. Kevin Slowey, Alex Sanabia, Jonathan Albaladejo, Brailio Lara, A.J. Ramos, and Raudel Lazo also saw time on the mound in addition to the aforementioned Webb and Reed. Of those names, two to keep an eye on are Ramos and Lara. Many expect Ramos to break camp with Miami after a great cup of coffee in 2012. Lara is a Rule 5 pick and would need to be offered back to Tampa Bay should he not make the roster so, he will be given every chance to earn a role.
On Monday, the Marlins will travel to Disney World to take on the Atlanta Braves. Wade LeBlanc will make the start as he begins his task of securing a rotation spot.
About Larry Walansky
