Marlins Host Reds in Pitching Duel at LoanDepot Park

Miami looks to extend early-season win streak against Cincinnati

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:28pm

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The Miami Marlins (5-3) will host the Cincinnati Reds (5-3) on Monday night at LoanDepot Park in a matchup of two teams tied atop their respective divisions. Miami will send right-hander Janson Junk to the mound, while the Reds counter with lefty Brandon Williamson. Both teams have gotten off to strong starts this season, with the Marlins averaging 5.25 runs per game and the Reds pitching staff posting a 3.53 team ERA.

Why it matters

This early-season clash between the Marlins and Reds features two teams looking to establish themselves as contenders in the NL East and NL Central. The winner will take sole possession of first place in their division, making this an important game in the race for the playoffs.

The details

The Marlins have been led by their powerful offense, which has a .462 slugging percentage and is averaging over 5 runs per game. Meanwhile, the Reds' pitching staff has been stingy, allowing just 3.53 runs per game. Junk and Williamson will look to set the tone on the mound in this matchup of division leaders.

  • The game is scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026 at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida.
  • First pitch is set for 7:10 PM EDT.

The players

Janson Junk

The Marlins' right-handed starting pitcher, who has a 7-7 career record and a 4.85 ERA.

Brandon Williamson

The Reds' left-handed starting pitcher, who has a 5-6 career record and a 4.66 ERA.

Miami Marlins

The National League East division-leading team, with a 5-3 record so far this season.

Cincinnati Reds

The National League Central division-leading team, also with a 5-3 record to start the year.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to host the Reds in this early-season showdown between two of the NL's top teams. It should be a great pitching matchup and a close game.”

— Don Mattingly, Marlins Manager

What’s next

The winner of this game will take sole possession of first place in their respective division, setting the stage for an exciting race to the playoffs.

The takeaway

This early-season clash between the Marlins and Reds features two teams off to strong starts and looking to establish themselves as contenders. With the pitching matchup of Junk vs. Williamson, it should be a close, low-scoring affair that could come down to which team's offense can break through first.