Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 4:40 PM ET
Venue: loanDepot Park, Miami, FL
Broadcast: Bally Sports Florida, Spectrum SportsNet
Matchup Overview
The Los Angeles Dodgers (24-11) take on the Miami Marlins (13-21) in the second game of their three-game series at loanDepot Park.
Los Angeles boasts one of the best offenses in MLB, ranking second in home runs (58) and third in total runs scored (189). Meanwhile, Miami has struggled, posting the 30th-ranked ERA (5.75) and ranking 16th in total runs scored (151).
Starting Pitchers
Los Angeles Dodgers – Landon Knack (1-0, 7.27 ERA, 5 K)
- Last Start: 4 innings, 3 earned runs vs. Atlanta.
- Season Stats: 7.27 ERA, 1.54 WHIP, .289 opponent batting average.
- Analysis: Knack has struggled early in the season but has the potential to improve. His 5.01 xFIP suggests some bad luck, and he’ll need to limit Miami’s contact-heavy approach.
Miami Marlins – Valente Bellozo (0-2, 4.97 ERA, 12 K)
- Last Start: 5 innings, 2 earned runs vs. Philadelphia.
- Season Stats: 4.97 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, .265 opponent batting average.
- Analysis: Bellozo has been inconsistent, and his 6.80 xFIP suggests regression. His fly-ball rate (52%) could be problematic against a Dodgers lineup that thrives on power.
Key Players to Watch
Los Angeles Dodgers
- Shohei Ohtani – Batting .292 with nine home runs, recently hit a 117.9 mph home run, marking one of the hardest-hit balls in Dodgers history.
- Mookie Betts – Leads the team in OBP (.334) and continues to be a key offensive force.
- Freddie Freeman – Has a favorable matchup, as Miami’s bullpen lacks same-handed relievers.
Miami Marlins
- Kyle Stowers – Has been heating up, providing much-needed offensive production.
- Jesús Sánchez – Batting .249, looking to capitalize on Knack’s struggles.
- Sandy Alcántara – Not pitching in this game but remains Miami’s most reliable starter.
Game Storylines & Predictions
1. Can Miami’s Pitching Contain LA’s Power?
The Dodgers rank second in MLB in slugging percentage (.461) and have been dominant offensively. If Bellozo struggles with fly balls, LA could put up big numbers early.
2. Dodgers’ Road Dominance
Los Angeles has won 71% of games as favorites this season and has a 10-1 record when favored by at least -225.
3. Pitching Duel – Knack vs. Bellozo
Both starters have had inconsistent seasons, making this a potential high-scoring affair.
Game Odds
Los Angeles Dodgers – 238
Miami Marlins 9.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 6, 2025
