Series Preview: Reds at Marlins

The Miami Marlins will host the Cincinnati Reds in a four-game series at Marlins Park beginning on Monday.

Miami clinched a losing record over the weekend, but also took a series from the Philadelphia Phillies. The Marlins sit at 47-82 overall on the year and are likely going to finish in last place in the division. Miami has struggled to put together a starting rotation, following some trades and injuries.

Pablo Lopez will make his return from the injured list to start Monday's game. Lopez has not started a major league game in over two months and the Marlins have missed his production. Before landing on the injured list, Lopez put together a 5-5 record and a 4.23 E.R.A. The right-hander has posted four consecutive quality starts and will be looking to continue that streak in this game.

Caleb Smith has had a rough month of August and will make his final start of the month on Tuesday. Smith has a 5.66 E.R.A. this month and a 3.82 mark overall in 2019. The lefty missed the series with the Reds in April, but he did face them last season. In 2018, Smith picked up a win over the Reds after tossing 5.2 scoreless innings.

Miami's starter on Wednesday will be All-Star Sandy Alcantara. The right-hander has put together three straight quality starts and has gotten stronger in each outing. Alcantara is 4-11 on the year, but his 4.15 E.R.A. reflects his work in a more meaningful way. The 23-year old has been inconsistent this season, but he has pitched some of Miami's best games along the way.

Jordan Yamamoto's rookie season started very well, but he has struggled mightily in recent weeks. Yamamoto's E.R.A has risen to 4.87 and he has dropped five straight decisions. The right-hander began his major league career with a 4-0 record and a 1.59 E.R.A. Since then, Miami has lost six of the last seven times Yamamoto has started. Thursday's start for Yamamoto, will be his first career game against the Reds.

Miami lost Brian Anderson over the weekend for the reason and his bat will be missed. Anderson leads the Marlins with his 20 home runs and he is near the top in numerous other offensive categories as well. The third baseman turned outfielder is expected to be ready to go for spring training in February. Austin Dean will likely see plenty of playing time in the interim.