Coming off of a mixed homestand that saw them take three of five from the Pirates and Angels, the Cubs are escaping to Miami for a three-game set with the Marlins. The return to Chicago saw strong performances for several on the pitching staff, including a long run of scoreless innings from the bullpen, and the Cubs will hope to use this momentum to build some much needed consistency.
The last-place Marlins (4-12) are limping into the series having lost six of their last seven games, including two of three to the Phillies. After the recent offseason roster teardowns, they are likely to struggle to compete in the tough NL East.