Now Will You Take the Marlins Seriously?

With 2 straight wins over the favored Braves, the Marlins aren't just sitting on top of the standings in the NL East - they are creating space.

The Marlins won a gutsy game tonight by eeking out enough runs against the Braves. They started by pounding on Tim Hudson, who is off to a very good 2008 campaign, and knocking him out in 4 innings. A dramatic pinch hit home run from Luis Gonzalez gave the Marlins the insurance they needed to keep the lead.

The Marlins are not just winning with the long ball, and with Jeremy Hermida back in the lineup everyday, they have a very deep bench that makes things a bit interesting. Gonzalez and Wes Helms both provide clubhouse leadership while also giving them a legit presence for later in the game.

The bullpen is the strength of this team but the starters are starting to turn things around a bit. With pitching coach Mark Wiley stressing throwing strikes and picking up the pace of their deliveries, the starters are starting to be more consistent which will help keep the bullpen well-rested for when they are needed.

Things are coming together in Miami. How long until the rest of the media realizes it?