Marlins vs Dodgers Preview: Rising Alcántara Faces Aces

The Los Angeles Dodgers are rolling into Wednesday's game with momentum on their side. With a 20-9 record and a three-game winning streak, Los Angeles looks unstoppable at home. Shohei Ohtani, the sport's most exciting two-way star, leads the Dodgers' powerful lineup and will take the mound as the probable pitcher. Kyle Tucker adds another dangerous bat after joining the team in the offseason. Miami's Janson Junk gets the start for the Marlins, who sit at 13-16 and lost Tuesday's game 5-4 in a late-inning heartbreaker. The Dodgers' pitching staff is loaded with talent, making them one of baseball's most complete teams.

Miami's pitching depth is being tested with several players on the injured list. Sandy Alcántara, the team's ace and former Cy Young Award winner, represents the rotation's potential when healthy. Young arms like Eury Pérez, Max Meyer, and Chris Paddack provide stability to the staff. However, Pete Fairbanks, the closer, is currently dealing with a pinched nerve and won't be available for this matchup. Liam Hicks hit a three-run home run Monday but remains day-to-day after his strong performance. The Marlins must find ways to generate offense while their pitching staff works to contain the powerful Dodgers lineup.

Miami's future depends on young talent stepping up against tough competition. Agustín Ramírez, the team's 24-year-old catcher, showed impressive power last season with 21 home runs and 67 RBIs in 136 games. Xavier Edwards brings speed and contact hitting skills to the shortstop position, ranking among team leaders in stolen bases. Edwards' ability to get on base pressures opposing defenses and creates scoring chances for teammates. Both players represent Miami's long-term plans for building a competitive roster. Against the Dodgers' star-studded lineup, these young Marlins will need to perform under pressure and prove they belong on this stage.

This game showcases baseball at its highest level with two very different teams. Los Angeles boasts one of baseball's best offenses paired with dominant pitching depth. The Dodgers already beat Miami 5-4 on Tuesday in a thrilling late-inning comeback. Miami comes back seeking revenge while testing their young roster against established stars. Shohei Ohtani's dual-threat ability means he impacts the game both pitching and hitting, making him must-watch entertainment. Though the Marlins face long odds, their young players like Ramírez and Edwards have opportunities to prove themselves against elite competition and gain valuable experience for future success.