The Miami Marlins are making a strong case for the most improved team in the National League this season.

After a lackluster performance in the previous year, where they managed only 69 wins, the Marlins are now boasting a 76-72 record and are knocking on the door of a National League wild-card spot. Following their impressive 9-6 victory over the Atlanta Braves in the opening game of a three-game series, the Marlins are just half a game behind the Arizona Diamondbacks and Cincinnati Reds in the race for the final NL wild-card position.

The Marlins’ resurgence can be attributed to various factors, including the guidance of potential NL Manager of the Year, Skip Schumaker, who has maximized the potential of his roster. Leading the charge for Miami’s offense is Luis Arraez, who currently tops the majors with an impressive .349 batting average. Arraez had a standout performance on Friday, hitting two home runs in what marked the first multi-homer game of his career. When asked about his impressive performance, Arraez humbly stated, “I just try to get hits. If I get homers, I’ll take it.”

The Marlins are also receiving a boost in their roster’s health, with the return of center fielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. after a brief absence due to a knee injury. Slugger Jorge Soler, who has been sidelined with an oblique injury since September 5, is also inching closer to making his return. Chisholm, who has 16 homers and leads the team with 19 steals, contributed one hit and a run scored in Friday’s game.

On the pitching front, Tanner Scott has been a standout performer, securing his ninth save in Friday’s game. Scott has been one of the most improved pitchers in the majors this season, ranking in the top 10 among all relievers in strikeouts, holds, and innings. With a 7-4 record, a 2.18 ERA, and nine saves, Scott has come a long way from his 5.17 ERA in 2021 and 4.31 ERA in 2022.

For Saturday’s matchup, the Marlins will hand the ball to right-hander Bryan Hoeing (2-2, 4.04 ERA). Hoeing has had his struggles against Atlanta, with a career 0-2 record and a 13.03 ERA in four games, including two starts, against the Braves. On the other side, the Braves (96-51), who have already secured their sixth consecutive NL East title, will rely on lefty Jared Shuster for Saturday’s start. This marks Shuster’s 11th big-league start and his first encounter with the Marlins.