Players To Watch: Diamondbacks Vs. Marlins
Jun 24, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Mat Latos (35) throws against the St. Louis Cardinals during the fifth inning at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Perhaps one of the biggest disappointments for this Marlins squad has been Mat Latos. Acquired from the Cincinnati Reds during the offseason, the Florida native has struggled through the season to the tune of a 3-6 record and a 4.90 ERA.
Recently, however, Latos has improved. Over his last five starts, the right-hander is sporting a 3.31 ERA with 31 strikeouts over 32 2/3 innings. These numbers fall much closer to his career statistics, where he boasts a 3.45 ERA.
I contend that he’s a significantly better pitcher than his ERA for this season (as shown by his 3.48 FIP). He also throws a pitch that teammates and coaches call The Critter; it’s not known to be thrown by anyone else in the majors and it’s basically a changeup/knuckle-curve/splitter hybrid, and Latos generally has no idea where it’s going. So that’s fun!
With the Marlins sitting 12 games back and difference-makers like Stanton and Dee Gordon on the disabled list, the season appears to be lost for Miami. Set to be a free agent this offseason, Latos could very well be on the move at the trade deadline. Look for him to pitch well in the coming weeks.