Marlins Open Season with 2-1 Win Over Rockies

Sanoja's 3 Hits, Alcantara's Solid Start Propel Miami to Victory

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:48am

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The Miami Marlins opened the 2026 MLB season with a 2-1 victory over the Colorado Rockies on Friday night. Javier Sanoja had three hits and Sandy Alcantara pitched seven strong innings, allowing just one run, to lead the Marlins to the win.

Why it matters

The Marlins are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, while the Rockies are hoping to build on their recent success. This opening day matchup between the two expansion franchises provides an early glimpse into how their seasons may unfold.

The details

Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young award winner, struck out five batters and allowed four hits and two walks over seven innings. Sanoja went 3-for-3 at the plate, including an RBI single in the second inning. The Marlins opened the scoring in the second when designated hitter Owen Caissie hit a run-scoring double in his first at-bat with the team.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • Alcantara made his franchise-leading sixth start on opening day.

The players

Javier Sanoja

A Marlins outfielder who had three hits in the game.

Sandy Alcantara

The Marlins' starting pitcher, who allowed one run over seven innings and struck out five batters.

Owen Caissie

The Marlins' designated hitter, who hit a run-scoring double in his first at-bat with the team.

Kyle Freeland

The Rockies' starting pitcher, who gave up two runs over 4.1 innings.

Pete Fairbanks

The Marlins' closer, who pitched a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save in his Marlins debut.

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What’s next

The two teams will face off again on Saturday, with the Rockies sending Michael Lorenzen to the mound against the Marlins' Eury Pérez.

The takeaway

This opening day victory provides an encouraging start for the Marlins as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season. The performance of Alcantara and the production from the lineup, including newcomer Caissie, suggest the team may be poised to challenge in the NL East this year.