At this number, I have to play at least a half-unit even if I'm not super confident about it. The Marlins might be better than expected, although perhaps their 3-1 record is simply the Pirates being worse than thought other than when Paul Skenes starts. The Mets are without All-Star shortstop and leadoff hitter Francisco Lindor as he stepped away after the birth of his child (but isn't officially on the Paternity List so maybe will play in the series). Miami's Cal Quantrill, in his first year with the club, is usually a solid starting pitcher. Only a handful of Mets have seen him and not any with more than 8 at-bats.

The Mets will enjoy hitting in this ballpark. The Marlins look better than they are facing a Pirates lineup that has too many AAA bats. Not the case here and Miami already had to lean into their pen a bunch including an extra-inning game. David Peterson is a solid lefty who has a 2.40 career ERA vs the Fish. The Marlins have been getting by throwing out multiple runners at home, robbing HRs and getting some ridiculously good luck. Baseball Gods about to face a very different challenge with the Metropolitans in town.