Series Preview: Brewers at Marlins

The Miami Marlins will try and put a dent in the playoff hopes of the Milwaukee Brewers in a series beginning on Monday.

The Brewers are currently not in possession of a playoff spot, but are within striking distance. Miami meanwhile is trying to avoid a 100-loss season, with 20 games remaining. This four-game series could ultimately decide Milwaukee's fate for the postseason, and it should give the Marlins something to play for.

Miami has a 51-91 record overall and it has dropped six of the last nine games it has played. The Marlins have been facing losing teams recently, but will take on several contending teams down the stretch. With the playoffs out of reach for Miami, this could the young club some valuable experience in meaningful games.

Rookie Robbert Dugger will start for Miami in the series opener. Dugger has put together two straight quality starts and has a 4.00 E.R.A. overall this season. The 24- year old is auditioning for a spot in Miami's 2020 rotation and he has helped his chances thus far. Due to a lack of run support, the right-hander is still looking for his first big-league win.

Elieser Hernandez lasted only three innings his last time out and he will get his next chance to start on Tuesday. Hernandez has compiled a 3-5 record to go along with a 5.23 E.R.A in 2019. The right-hander has been inconsistent, while handling multiple roles on Miami's pitching staff. Due to some issues with efficiency and his experience in relief, Hernandez could be ticketed for a move back to the bullpen in 2020.

Wednesday's starter for Miami will be Pablo Lopez and he will bring a 4.75 E.R.A into the game. Lopez earned a quality start his last time on the mound, but was still charged with his third straight loss. The 23-year old is 5-8 on the season, and is expected to be a part of Miami's rotation next season. Lopez battled some injury problems this season and a little inconsistency along the way.

Caleb Smith will pitch for the Marlins in Thursday's series finale. Smith found some of his early-season magic in his last outing, but Miami still ended up on the losing end. Smith went six shutout innings in the team's loss and struck out eight along the way. The lefty entered that outing in a slump and will look to continue the turnaround in this game.