By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Thursday, May 19, 2011
. UP NEXT
at Marlins
Tonight-Sunday
What's new: The Marlins have been off to a surprising start, doing it with some relatively unheralded contributors, such as 1B Gaby Sanchez (.319, seven homers, 26 RBIs), OF Logan Morrison (.316-5-12, with a .415 on-base percentage) and closer Leo Nunez (MLB-best 15-for-15 in saves). Having a rotation led by Josh Johnson, Anibal Sanchez and Ricky Nolasco helps. SS Hanley Ramirez has been a disappointment, hitting .217 overall and .163 vs. right-handers, as has free agent RHP Javier Vazquez (2-4, 7.55 ERA).
Key stat: The Marlins have 12 one-run wins (most in the majors) and 13 come-from-behind wins (second most).
Connections: Marlins LHP Randy Choate is a former Ray; RHP Ryan Webb (Clearwater Central Catholic) and OF Chris Coghlan (East Lake) are Tampa Bay high school products. … Rays INF Sean Rodriguez grew up in the Miami area.
Series history: Marlins lead 40-33 overall, 23-15 at Pro Player/Dolphins/Land Shark/Sun Life Stadium.
Marc Topkin, Times staff writer