Offishial news, 6/28/23: Sandy's refreshing change; Ohtani's unreal first half

[Ely Sussman]

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[Guest THOMAS JOSEPH]

Sandy Alcantara's performance has to be as uplifting as the offensive explosion last night. Other than a few calls from the home plate umpire (thoroughly justified vis-a-vis the StatCast zone box), Sandy looked loose - even jocular at times. He had some playful glances toward Stallings and, perhaps emboldened by the early offensive outburst, exemplified the 2022 Cy Young Winner with pitch efficiency, zone movement, and tenacity. Even the Verdugo RBI was not solid, knocking in the run only because of an odd carom off of Wendle and into left field no man's land. Seven strong innings under 100 pitches, combined with the big lead, allowed Archie Bradley's two-inning mop-up operation. A welcome full extra day off for the hard-working Marlins' regular relievers. Quite satisfactory.

[Ely Sussman]

Rest for the other relievers is huge, yeah. No more off days between now and the All-Star break.