As we prepare for the Atlanta Braves upcoming series with the Miami Marlins, we talked to David Levin of Marlin Maniac.
After coming home this week the Atlanta Braves swept the Chicago Cubs and now have three games with the Miami Marlins.
As for the Fish, they were just swept at home by the New York Mets, so they’re desperate for a win.
Here is our Q&A with Marlin Maniac:
Q: What are your early thoughts about this Marlins team?
The pitching staff is better than maybe some thought it would be. The young rotation could be really good in a year or two, potentially resembling the staff of the Braves of the early 1990s. The hitting leaves a bit to be desired since the team is playing from behind at times this season.
Q: What hitter has looked the best at the plate so far?
Starlin Castro has gotten off to a great start. He has already hit two home runs and is making solid contact at the dish. I know this is a season where he most likely will get traded at the deadline in July, but to have his presence in the lineup right now is a great balance for the young hitters still developing this season.
Q: What can we expect from the young pitching staff?
Better than average. Trevor Richards has had two quality starts and one loss this season. Sandy Alcantara looked great in his season debut. Jose Urena once again is struggling to find his way early this season. Pablo Lopez and Caleb Smith are solid pitchers who will get better as the season progresses.
(Note: the Atlanta Braves are scheduled to face Alcantara, Lopez, and Smith)
Q: Is there a new player or a rookie we haven’t heard of that we should keep an eye on?
I think Smith is the guy to watch closely. He was 5-6 last season before suffering a lat injury that ended his season. His numbers were similar to former Marlins starter Dan Straily. For a number five starter, he is going to be one of the best in the National League.
Q: What are realistic expectations for the Marlins in 2019?
I might be a little biased, but I think this team can win 75 games. Manager Don Mattingly, in the final year of his deal with the team, has a great mix of youth and veteran presence. No one thinks this team will win more than 65-67 games. I just feel differently about it.
Thanks to David and Marlin Maniac for taking the time to answer a few questions about the upcoming series between the Atlanta Braves and Miami Marlins that starts Friday night at SunTrust Park.