The Miami Marlins were mathematically eliminated from playoff contention with their 3-2 loss to the Washington Nationals on Saturday.
The loss was the third straight for the Marlins and also their 80th of the season. One more loss would eliminate the opportunity to have a winning season. Miami has been in a tailspin since losing slugger Giancarlo Stanton to a season-ending injury.
Jarred Cosart continued his fine season as a Marlin with three-run ball over 6.1 innings. The loss was tagged to Cosart though due to a lack of run support. With nine hits and two walks, it wasn't Cosart's best outing but it was still a quality start. The right-hander is now 13-10 on the year when combining his time with the Houston Astros.
Mike Dunn, Chris Hatcher and Carter Capps combined for 2.1 scoreless innings of relief after Cosart exited. That kept the Marlins in the game even though it ended up being a wasted effort when Miami's bats were silenced.
Justin Bour continued to show that he is big league ready with another solid day. Making a second straight start at first base, Bour had two hits and a run batted in. While he's struggled off the bench, Bour has been exceptional as a starter.
Reed Johnson made another start in right-field and doubled for the 13th time on the season. Most of the starts in the corner outfield spot have gone to Johnson as of late. Johnson mishandled a couple of plays in right field along the way.
The Marlins will try to salvage one win in the four-game series on Sunday when Nathan Eovaldi takes the mound.
