Every team in the NL East opens an interleague series against the AL East, with the Marlins and Nationals drawing their regional rival.
(Record in past week; games back)
Atlanta Braves: (3-3; -2.5)
The Braves split two games with Arizona, as the third of their series last weekend was rained out. The Braves then split a four game series with the Colorado Rockies. The Braves will open a three game interleague series with the MLB-leading Toronto Blue Jays, drawing ace Roy Halladay on Friday night.
Florida Marlins: ( 2-4; -4.5)
The Marlins lost two of three to both the Dodgers and Diamondbacks at home this past week. Jorge Cantu has battled wrist issues, but refused to be pulled from the lineup. His hitting has suffered, so he may have to sit out a game. The Marlins open a three game interleague series against their in-state rivals, the Tampa Bay Rays. Friday features Ricky Nolasco vs. Andy Sonnanstine, and both of their stats look remarkably similar. Sonnanstine will be in the lineup, as the Marlins are the home team, but he will not bat 3rd like in last week’s managerial mistake.
Philadelphia Phillies (6-1; Div. Leader)
The Phillies went on a tear against the Nationals and Reds to take the division lead. They travel to New York to play the Yankees. Peter Gammonds of ESPN has the over/under on HR’s hit this series at 16 combined. I’ll take the over. CC Sabathia and Cole Hamels meet in the Sunday game.
Washington Nationals (1-7; -10.5)
The Nationals were dreadful this week, being swept by the Phillies and losing three of four to the Pittsburgh Pirates. They open a three game interleague series with their geographical counterparts, the Baltimore Orioles. Two of the 1B names thrown around on this site, Nick Johnson and Aubrey Huff will be featured. The Oriole offense is better than their record indicates, but they lose the DH this weekend.
Till Next Time
