Miami Marlins edged out 5-6 by Milwaukee Brewers as Ryan Webb allows tie-breaking run - MLB
Relief pitcher Ryan Webb gives up one run, which costs the Miami Marlins a 5-6 defeat against the Milwaukee Brewers on July 2, 2012 in first game of the four match series at Miller Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Strong start by the Marlins did not result in a victory for them. Being ahead of the Brewers in first half of the game, they were heading to an easy victory.
However, their momentum did not last. Milwaukee launched a successful counter-attack during the later part of the game.
July has been going fine for the Marlins so far, after they get rid of a disastrous month of June, which saw them piling up defeats.
Winning series against the Philadelphia Phillies was a morale booster. It was expected to turn out to be a watershed event for a juggernaut that Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen and owner Jeffrey Loria dream from the club from now onward.
However, an immediate follow-up with a loss will not augur well for the expectations of the manager.
Centre-fielder Justin Ruggiano was the stand-out performer for the Marlins. He drove in four runs. In four at-bats, he struck two hits. Since rest of the hitters remained quiet, his contribution did not prove decisive.
Right-fielder Giancarlo Stanton, who is a part of the crew for the Home Run Derby, was not as effective as he has been throughout the season.
While offence did a reasonable job, pitchers were unable to capitalise on the run-support. Carlos Zambrano who started for the Marlins leaked runs. Unable to keep Brewers from putting up effective resistance, he gave up five runs in six innings.
He conceded one home-run. Apart from hits, his control was dithering as he walked four.
For as long as Zambrano was on the mound, game remained tied.
When he was replaced with Webb, the decision proved costly as he gave up the tie-breaking run.
Relievers have been a cause of concern for the Marlins, in the season. Monday was another reminder of this.
Manager Guillen is aware of the phase that the season has entered and how crucial it is going to be. Therefore, he will be looking to see the club making a comeback and winning the series.
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