The Miami Marlins finished their 2015 season with a loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday by a final score of 7-2.
With the game having no meaning in the standings, the Marlins let Ichiro Suzuki pitch in the eighth inning. The future Hall of Famer has often spoke of his desire to pitch in a big league game. Manager Dan Jennings gave Suzuki the ball for one frame. Suzuki allowed a run on two hits.
Upon returning the dugout, Suzuki was greeted warmly by his teammates. The crowd in Philadelphia also gave Suzuki a loud ovation. The veteran is a free agent after the season, and may not be back with the Marlins in 2016.
It was an exciting game for the Marlins despite the loss as Dee Gordon and Christian Yelich reached personal goals. Gordon had three hits to help him clinch the National League batting title. Yelich was 0-2 in this one, but due to his recent play finished the year with a .300 average. This was the first time in Yelich's career that he reached the .300 level.
Gordon entered the game in a virtual tie with Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals. Right out of the gate, Gordon doubled on the first pitch thrown. In his next at-bat, Gordon smashed a home run to right field on the first pitch seen. The blast was the fourth of the season for Gordon who is not known for his power.
Andre Rienzo allowed four runs without retiring a batter in the seventh inning. It was a rough outing for Rienzo who bounced between AAA and the majors this year. Rienzo may battle for a bullpen spot in spring training and is also a trade candidate.
The Marlins will begin the 2016 season on April 5th, 2016 at home against the Detroit Tigers. Spring training will get underway in February.
