Phillies vs Marlins Picks and Predictions September 5th 2025
The Philadelphia Phillies look to keep their momentum rolling into Friday’s opening game of a three-game series against the Miami Marlins. With Cristopher Sanchez on the mound and playoff aspirations in sight, this matchup promises fireworks.
Sanchez Eyes Cy Young Traction
Cristopher Sanchez has been stellar this season, and Friday’s start feels crucial for his Cy Young bid. His latest outing saw him go seven innings with one run allowed and eight punchouts against Atlanta.
“Making adjustments — that’s what it’s all about,” Sanchez said after that dominant performance.
He’s excelled against Miami in his career: a 2–0 record with a 1.27 ERA across five appearances, including a one-run effort in eight innings back in June.
Pitcher | Team | Record | ERA | Vs Marlins |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cristopher Sanchez | Philadelphia Phillies | 11-5 | 2.66 | 2-0, 1.27 ERA (5 games) |
Phillies Riding Recent Success
Philadelphia enters the series at 81–59 after a strong road trip in Milwaukee, taking two of three from the NL-leading Brewers. Return-to-form performances from Ranger Suarez, Trea Turner, and Bryson Stott anchored the effort.
Turner captured the team’s vibe succinctly:
“Attitude is just keep pushing and keep competing and the good things will happen.”
The Phillies will be aiming to build on this positive energy as the postseason nears.
Marlins Looking to Reset at Home
The Marlins have struggled lately, enduring a heavy three-game sweep at the hands of the last-place Nationals. Still, a comeback 10–5 finish in the finale sparked some hope.
Joey Wiemer notched his first home run since 2023, and Heriberto Hernandez added two RBIs. For Marlins manager Clayton McCullough, it was a moment of pride.
“There’s strength there… That just gives him confidence,” McCullough said of Wiemer.
Bullpen Focus: Valente Bellozo on the Mound
Miami counters with reliever-turned-starter Valente Bellozo, who will take the ball Friday. He’s worked mostly in relief but showed promise starting last season against the Phillies.
He held them to four hits over seven scoreless frames in his rookie start.
Pitcher | Team | W-L | ERA | Recent Performance |
---|---|---|---|---|
Valente Bellozo | Miami Marlins | 1-3 | 3.91 | 4.1 IP, 1 ER vs Mets (Aug 29) |
Bellozo’s potential to eat innings may be key against a sharp Phillies lineup.
Game Prediction and Best Bet
With Sanchez dialed in and Miami looking to reset, this seesaw series could hinge on the mound. Given Philadelphia’s recent form and Sanchez’s dominance, they appear best positioned to strike first.
Pick: Phillies ML (-130)
Prediction: Phillies 5, Marlins 2
Consider checking out the full MLB betting guide for deeper analysis and trends.
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FAQs
Who starts for the Phillies vs Marlins game?
Cristopher Sanchez starts for Philadelphia, with Valente Bellozo set for Miami.
How is Sanchez performing this season?
He’s 11-5 with a 2.66 ERA and staking a claim in the Cy Young conversation.
How have the Marlins been recently?
They were swept by Washington, but fought back for a respectable finale in the series.
What’s special about Bellozo’s past outing vs Phillies?
He shut them down in a rookie start: 7 IP, 4 H, 0 R.
What are the recent trends for the Phillies?
They won 5 of their last 7, including beating the division-leading Brewers.