The Miami Marlins open their three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates with a pitching matchup that carries real momentum on one side and a chance to reset on the other.
Sandy Alcantara has been sharp in June, and Miami will look for that form to carry into PNC Park as it tries to extend a five-game win streak. He has already beaten the Washington Nationals and Tampa Bay Rays this month, working seven innings in each start and allowing only four runs across 14 innings.
Why Alcantara matters in the opener
The Marlins are hoping for length from Alcantara to limit bullpen use early in the series. A strong outing in the opener would also give Miami more flexibility deeper in the weekend as it tries to keep its run going.
Pittsburgh will answer with Braxton Ashcraft, who has been steady overall this season with a 3.28 ERA in 13 starts. His three-game winning streak ended in his last outing against the Atlanta Braves, when he went five innings and allowed six earned runs in a 6-3 road loss.
What Ashcraft is trying to change at home
Now back at PNC Park, Ashcraft will try to use the home crowd to help him get back on track. The Pirates are coming off a series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers and will need a cleaner start if they want to slow Miami down in the opener.
According to sports.yahoo.com, the matchup is set for PNC Park in Pittsburgh, with KDKA AM/FM and Sportsnet carrying the broadcast. The pitching matchup listed is Sandy Alcantara (5-4, 4.33 ERA) against Braxton Ashcraft (5-3, 3.28 ERA).
