Los Angeles looks to extend winning streak as Miami struggles with injuries
Category: Sports
The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to kick off a three-game series against the Miami Marlins on Friday, September 11, 2026, at loanDepot Park, with first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. EDT. The Dodgers, riding high on a seven-game winning streak, enter the contest with a record of 89-57, positioning themselves 3.5 games ahead of the Atlanta Braves for the second seed in the National League playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Marlins have struggled recently, losing three consecutive games and six of their last seven, bringing their record to 72-75. This matchup marks the fourth time these teams have faced each other this season, following a series in late April where Miami secured two out of three games.
In a notable development, top prospect Josue De Paula will make his major league debut, batting seventh in the lineup and taking on the designated hitter role. At just 21 years old, De Paula is the first position player to be called up directly from Double-A during Andrew Friedman's tenure as president of baseball operations for the Dodgers. Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in De Paula's readiness for the big leagues, stating, "He seems to be ready for the moment." De Paula will serve as the designated hitter throughout the series, filling the gap left by Shohei Ohtani, who is currently on the injured list.
Freddie Freeman, a key player for the Dodgers, is again absent due to a knee injury but is expected to return for Saturday's game. Freeman has been a consistent contributor, boasting a .297 batting average with 16 home runs and 66 RBIs this season. His absence leaves a notable void in the lineup, but the Dodgers have shown resilience, scoring 14 runs in their last game against the Cincinnati Reds, even without their star first baseman.
On the mound, the Dodgers will rely on left-handed pitcher Blake Snell, who has been exceptional since returning from the injured list. Snell holds a record of 3-1 with a 1.97 ERA and 43 strikeouts over 32 innings this season. He has demonstrated remarkable control, yielding only three runs in his last five starts. Snell is eager to continue his success, stating, "I think I can be way beter. I go out there with a plan and being able to adjust and get quick outs off of that." His performance will be key as the Dodgers aim to extend their winning streak.
Opposing Snell will be Marlins right-hander Ryan Gusto, who enters the game with a 4.23 ERA and 62 strikeouts over 72.1 innings this season. Gusto has struggled in recent outings, including a performance where he allowed five runs in ten hits against the Chicago Cubs. The Marlins will need a strong showing from Gusto to compete against the potent Dodgers lineup.
The Dodgers lineup features several notable hitters, including Max Muncy, who has 27 home runs and 70 RBIs, and Mookie Betts, who has been a consistent offensive threat. With players like Teoscar Hernández and Kyle Tucker also contributing, the Dodgers have a formidable lineup capable of putting runs on the board.
This series is particularly important for the Dodgers as they continue their pursuit of a top-two seed in the National League playoffs. The team's recent success has positioned them well, but maintaining momentum is key. With the postseason approaching, every game counts, and the Dodgers are looking to solidify their standing in the league.
For the Marlins, this series presents an opportunity to regain some momentum after a rough stretch. With their recent struggles, the Marlins are hoping to turn things around against a strong Dodgers team. They will need to capitalize on any mistakes made by the Dodgers and find ways to score against Snell.
The Dodgers are also dealing with injuries, most prominently the absence of Shohei Ohtani, which has forced them to adapt their lineup. The ability to integrate young talent like De Paula could play a role in their success moving forward, especially as they navigate the challenges posed by injuries.
The Dodgers are embarking on a seven-game road trip, with this series against the Marlins being the first of three games. Following this series, they will face the Atlanta Braves, which could have playoff implications. The outcome of this series could influence their strategy moving forward, as they look to secure a favorable position in the postseason.
As for the Marlins, this series is a chance to regain confidence and start building momentum as they head into the final stretch of the season. With several players on the injured list, including key contributors, they will need to dig deep and find ways to win against a top-tier opponent.
The first game of the series is set to be broadcast on SportsNet LA and available in the MLB app. Fans can also listen to the game on AM570 (in English) and KTNQ 1020 AM (in Spanish). As the Dodgers and Marlins prepare to face off, attention will turn to De Paula as he makes his highly anticipated debut.