7/19/98 — Rob Stanifer allowed 3 runs in the top of the 12th and a Marlins’ rally fell just short, as the Cubs beat the Marlins 7-6. Of concern to the Marlins is the injury to Eric Ludwick who has already spent 2 stints on the DL.
After a 2-hour rain delay, the Marlins and starter Eric Ludwick jumped to a 7-1 lead over the Expos only to allow the Expos to tie the game in the top of the ninth. But Edgar Renteria took a risk by trying to reach third on an infield ground ball. Brad Fulmer’s throw ended up in the dugout, allowing Renteria to score the game winning run. Marlins 8 – Expos 7.
Eric Ludwick regained his spot in the starting rotation as the struggling Joe Fontenot (0-7) was placed on the disabled list. Ludwick will start on Monday. Ludwick was the Marlins’ best starter in the first few weeks of the season prior to getting injured.
Matt Williams hit a 2-run home run in the top of the 11th, his second of the game, leading Arizona to a 4-3 victory over the Marlins in front of 28,710 fans at Pro Player Stadium. Following the game, the Marlins actived Eric Ludwick, who will start Sunday, and sent down reliever Oscar Henriquez.
Bobby Bonilla was activated from the Disabled List. Josh Booty was sent down to AAA Charlotte. Andy Larkin was called up to replace Eric Ludwick who was placed on the 15-day DL.
Jim Leyland named Livan Hernandez, Felix Heredia, Brian Meadows, Rafael Medina and Eric Ludwick, in that order, as the Marlins starting rotation. Also, Craig Counsell was named the starting second baseman, which means Louis Castillo will return to AAA Charlotte.
Marlins trade utility infielder Kurt Abbott back to the team where they found him four years ago, the Oakland Athletics. Abbott, who made $650,000 last year and was headed to arbitration lost his starting 2B job when the Marlins acquired Craig Counsell. With a wealth of young talent available in the infield, including Alex González and Luis Castillo, Abbott became expendable. In return, the Marlins receive much needed pitching help with RHP Eric Ludwick.