The Miami Marlins are heading into the All-Star break with red hot bats following their 8-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday.
Factoring in Saturday's 14-3 win over the Reds, Miami ended up with 22 runs in its last two games. This prolific offensive run comes after Cincinnati shut the Marlins out on Friday. The offensive showcase in this win came without assistance from Dee Gordon and Giancarlo Stanton. Both All-Stars are on the shelf, but should return later this month.
The win for Miami improved its record to 38-51 on the year, and the team remains locked into fourth place in the division. While the Marlins have played better as of late, it will take a significant run in order to return to playoff contention.
Miami's eight runs came without the assistance of a home run. There were four doubles however with two coming from Justin Bour. The first baseman has nine doubles on the year to go along with ten blasts. Derek Dietrich did not start, but he made the most of his pinch-hitting appearance with his fifth double of the season.
Casey McGehee continued to swing the bat well with a double and two runs knocked in. While with the San Francisco Giants, McGehee struggled to find his rhythm. Since returning to Miami on Friday, McGehee has shown glimpses of the player that nearly made the All-Star team last season.
Dan Haren's time in Miami could be dwindling down, and he gave the team another solid outing. Haren who is set to be a free-agent allowed one run on five hits in six innings of work. With the playoffs looking like a long shot, Haren is a candidate to be traded by Miami in the coming weeks.
Miami will begin the second half on Friday in Philadelphia. Jose Fernandez is scheduled to be on the mound for the Marlins.
