All bull in the bullpen

Another game, another blow up.

This series with the Braves have pretty much gone that way. The offense shows up, scores some runs, and the starters keep it close. The bullpen comes in to relieve but does anything but.

I guess us Marlin fans should be positive here, and notice that two thirds of the process is starting to show up more consistently. Previously it was only the offense you could count on, now you can start to add the starters to the mix. Johnson and Willis were able to get chances at wins, Willis dueled with Hudson and won. Tonight, it was Nolasco getting his first major league start and he had to face John Smoltz.

And Ricky held his own over 3.2 innings, giving up no earned runs. Yusmeiro Petit gave the Marlins 3 more strong innings.

But the wheels came off the wagon once again. A combination of Kensing, Borowski and Messenger fought as long as they could be just couldn't bring this one home.

There looks like there is no one in this Marlins bullpen that wants the ball in pressure situations. Let alone deserves to have the ball. There is no one else left. Kranitz has his work cut out for him, but it seems like this year has been particularly troublesome. Last season, the Marlins had successful years from Vargas, Moehler, Willis. Vargas is down in AAA while Moehler and Willis have only begun to show signs of hope for this season.

The only other current active Marlins that played with the team last season are Messenger, Kensing, Johnson and Olsen. And all three saw limited action.

The veterans Borowski and Borowski, were brought in to be the dependent arms in the pen for just these crucial times. They have been inconsistent, too.

The key is patience for this young staff. From both the coaching staff and the Marlins.

But it doesn't look good right now for anyone.