Posted March 26, 201114 yr Marlins feeling strong armed for the NL East race JUPITER, Fla. -- If the rotation lives up to expectations, the Marlins anticipate competing in the tough National League East. Their entirely right-handed starting five has as much quality and depth since the franchise boasted having Dontrelle Willis, Josh Beckett and Brad Penny together eight years ago. Manager Edwin Rodriguez has set his staff, which is headed by two-time All-Star Josh Johnson. Johnson will take the mound in the April 1 opener against the Mets, who are going with Mike Pelfrey, at Sun Life Stadium. Ricky Nolasco will pitch the second game, and Javier Vazquez will close out the series with New York. Anibal Sanchez, the fourth starter, will face the Nationals on April 5. Chris Volstad, a 6-foot-8 right-hander, rounds out the staff and will pitch on April 6. The Marlins certainly will be banking on their starting staff to keep them competitive in the NL East. The Phillies and Braves, regarded as the two division favorites, each have strong rotations. "If you look at us, and you throw our staff up against those guys, we're not giving up one game, even if you match it up as it is," catcher John Buck said. "I feel very confident going into the season that our staff is going to be capable of doing what they can be doing." Awesome article ! :thumbup
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