Marlins in First Place

As dramatic as a walk off home run last night was for this team, Mike Jacobs raised the stakes and pulled off another amazing feat - a grand slam home run.

It didn't directly win the game, but was a large factor in the 7-3 result. Jacobs' grand slam all but took the wind out of the Pirates sails, and no raid was to be had. With this win, the Marlins assured their first home series win of the season, but more importantly moved into sole possession of 1st place atop the NL East standings.

Need proof? Just look at the standings in the column at the right!

Imagine that. The Marlins are playing spirited baseball with a can't lose attitude. They looked outmatched in a few games against the Mets but seemed to have bounced back this series. Just look at the pitching of Mark Hendrickson tonight as compared to how he performed in the season opener a few days ago. Instead of tripping up in the 4th, he made it to the sixth inning tonight. And for the bullpen, that is two nights in a row the starters have made it the 6th, sparing their arms for a few more days.

Tomorrow in the afternoon the Marlins will look to close out the Pirates and possibly remain in 1st place. Even if it is just for now there is no harm in dreaming about a possibly great season.

And Wes Helms, acquired by the Marlins tonight, is coming along at just the right time.