Marlins fall to Diamondbacks 7-6 on June 28 despite heroics from Lopez & Stowers. Sandy Alcantara's struggles continue in a heartbreaking loss in the desert.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a night of thrilling highs and frustrating lows for the Miami Marlins, who ultimately fell 7-6 to the Arizona Diamondbacks in a back-and-forth battle. While the offense showed incredible fight, sparked by a career night from Oswald Lopez and another blast from Kyle Stowers, the lingering questions surrounding former Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara grew louder after another difficult outing.
Oswald Lopez was a bright spot for Miami, going 3-for-5 with 3 RBIs, including a clutch two-run single in the seventh inning.
This one stings. The Marlins battled from behind, with Kyle Stowers launching a game-tying two-run homer in the sixth and Oswald Lopez delivering a go-ahead two-run single in the seventh. The energy was electric as Miami took a 6-5 lead. But the bullpen couldn't lock it down, surrendering two runs over the final three frames. The Marlins mounted one last threat in the ninth, putting the tying run in scoring position, but couldn't deliver the final blow, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
All eyes were on Sandy Alcantara in his 13th start since returning from Tommy John surgery, and the results were concerning. The ace labored through five innings, allowing five earned runs on eight hits, including two home runs. His velocity was reportedly down, and his ERA swelled to a worrisome 6.69. While patience is required for any pitcher returning from major surgery, each rocky start complicates the team's plans and diminishes the trade value of a player once considered one of baseball's most durable arms.
Despite the loss, there were plenty of reasons to be encouraged by the offense. Shortstop Oswald Lopez was the star of the show, racking up three hits and driving in three runs to raise his season average to .261. He's proving to be a steady and reliable presence in the lineup. Not to be outdone, designated hitter Kyle Stowers continued his power display, finishing 2-for-4. He now leads the club in both home runs (13) and RBIs (40), cementing his status as the team's premier run producer.
As the trade deadline inches closer, nights like these put the Marlins' front office in a tough spot. Do they sell off valuable pieces like a struggling Alcantara, or do they build around the emerging offensive core of players like Lopez and Stowers? For now, the focus shifts to salvaging a win in the series finale against the Diamondbacks. The bats are alive, but the team needs a solid pitching performance to turn these slugfests into victories.
