Fri May 16 22:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Rays Head to Miami for Series Against Struggling Marlins

**Miami, FL** – The Tampa Bay Rays (20-23) travel to Miami to face the Marlins (16-26) in a three-game series, hoping to continue their recent momentum against a team mired in a slump. The Marlins, coming off a day of rest, are in last place in the NL East, a distant 11 games behind the New York Mets. They’ve lost their last six series and are looking for a turnaround.

Despite the Marlins’ struggles, outfielder Kyle Stowers, acquired at the trade deadline, has been a bright spot. He’s hitting .300 with 10 home runs and a 156 wRC+, establishing himself as the team’s most valuable player. However, other key players like Xavier Edwards are underperforming, and Dane Myers is currently sidelined due to injury.

The Marlins’ pitching staff has been a major weakness, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key categories. Max Meyer has been the team’s best starter in a struggling staff. Jesus Tinoco and Calvin Faucher serve as high-leverage relievers in an otherwise weak bullpen.

The series is set to feature the following pitching matchups:

* Friday: Taj Bradley (Rays) vs. Max Meyer (Marlins)
* Saturday: Drew Rasmussen (Rays) vs. Edward Cabrera (Marlins)
* Sunday: Shane Baz (Rays) vs. Sandy Alcantara (Marlins)

The Rays will look to capitalize on the Marlins’ weaknesses and gain ground in the AL East standings, where they currently sit five games behind the Yankees.

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