Marlins vs Athletics Preview: Big July 4 Showdown

The Marlins roll into Oakland riding a two-game skid, but don't sleep on this team. They're sitting at 46-42 overall, with a strong 28-17 record when they play at home. On the road, though? That's where things get tougher for Miami. Tyler Phillips takes the mound as their starter, looking to spark a turnaround. The Marlins' pitching staff has serious potential with Sandy Alcántara leading the way. If their rotation clicks, Miami can hang with anybody. Pete Fairbanks closes games with a deadly fastball. This team has the pieces to bounce back.

The Athletics are stuck in tough shape at 41-46, with a home record of only 19-25. Ouch. That means they're losing more games at their own park than they're winning. Jack Perkins starts for Oakland, hoping to help turn things around. The good news? Oakland just won their last game, so there's momentum building. The Athletics have some young talent developing, and their pitching crew needs to step up. If they can stay healthy and pitch well, they have a shot at staying in games.

Both teams need strong arms on the mound today. Miami's Sandy Alcántara can dominate when healthy. He's their ace, and if he's right, he's dangerous. Oakland's Luis Severino is hurt right now, so younger starters must carry the load. Tyler Phillips for the Marlins faces Jack Perkins for the Athletics. This matchup could decide everything. Good pitching usually wins games. If either starter throws heat and hits their spots, runs will be hard to come by. Watch the first few innings closely.