Marlins Salvage Colorado Finale

Top Marlins prospect Chris Volstad made his major league debut on Sunday and came away a winner snapping the Marlins’ losing streak at 3 games.   In a game started by Mark Hendrickson, Volstad came in at just the right time.   The Marlins’ offense surged as Volstad shut down the Rockies for two innings in possibly his only relief appearance with the fish.  With the win, the Marlins moved within 2.5 games of the first place Phillies.

This was Hendrickson’s final start for awhile as starting Friday, Volstad will enter the rotation in the veteran lefty’s spot.    Hendrickson allowed 4 earned run in four innings of work as his E.R.A increased once again to 6.24.    Volstad allowd two walks and two hits while making his debut but worked out of jams showing great composure to allow no runs.  Kevin Gregg who had blown two saves in the series pitched a perfect 9th to end the game and the win for the Marlins.   In other pitching news announced on Sunday, Josh Johnson is scheduled to return to the rotation on Thursday as Ryan Tucker heads to the bullpen.

Cody Ross had another three hit game, his 4th consecutive and also hit his 15th home run of the season.  Ross amassed 15 runs batted in during the four game series including 5 on Sunday to give him 47 for the year.  Mike Jacobs, Wes Helms and Hanley Ramirez all had two hit games.

On Monday, the Marlins are headed for San Diego to start a series with the Padres.  Greg Maddux will pitch for the Padres, the fish will counter with Ricky Nolasco.