The Marlins and Padres began their long series at LoanDepot Park with an especially time-consuming opener on Thursday night. After nearly four hours of gameplay, the San Diegans did just enough to cling to a 3-2 victory. It was the 21st time in 2021 that the Fish have been defeat by a one-run margin.
The biggest factor contributing to the slow pace was an inability to throw strikes. The teams’ pitching staff combined for 14 walks, none of which were intentional. Jordan Holloway issued five of them to match his season-high in that category.
Anthony Bender “opened” the game for Holloway, becoming the 15th different Marlins pitcher to be used in a starting role this year (adding to what is already a franchise record).