Marlins Rally in 8th Inning to Avoid Yankees Sweep

Miami scores 4 runs in the 8th to take down New York in series finale

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:49am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Miami Marlins overcame an early 4-1 deficit and scored 4 runs in the 8th inning, including a go-ahead 2-run double by pinch hitter Graham Pauley, to defeat the host New York Yankees 7-6 and avoid being swept in their 3-game series.

Why it matters

The Marlins' comeback victory prevented them from being swept by the Yankees, a key divisional rival, and kept them within striking distance in the early season standings. The 8th inning rally showed the team's resilience and ability to bounce back from an early deficit.

The details

With the Marlins trailing 4-3 in the 8th, pinch hitter Graham Pauley lined a 2-run double to give Miami the lead. Xavier Edwards then added a 2-run single to extend the advantage to 7-4. The Yankees made it close with a 2-run double in the 9th, but Miami held on for the victory.

  • The game was delayed for 3 hours and 35 minutes due to rain prior to the first pitch.
  • The Marlins scored 4 runs in the 8th inning to take the lead.

The players

Graham Pauley

Marlins pinch hitter who delivered the go-ahead 2-run double in the 8th inning.

Xavier Edwards

Marlins outfielder who drove in 3 runs, including a 2-run single in the 8th inning to extend the lead.

Max Fried

Yankees starting pitcher who allowed 3 runs over 6.2 innings.

Ben Rice

Yankees outfielder who hit a 3-run homer in the 1st inning.

Anthony Bender

Marlins closer who recorded the save, despite allowing a 2-run double in the 9th inning.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We never gave up and kept battling back. That 8th inning rally was huge for us to avoid the sweep.”

— Graham Pauley, Marlins Pinch Hitter

What’s next

The Marlins will look to build on this comeback win as they return home to face the division-rival Braves in a 4-game series starting on Monday.

The takeaway

The Marlins showed their resilience and ability to overcome early deficits, rallying for 4 runs in the 8th inning to avoid being swept by the Yankees. This victory could provide a much-needed boost as they continue their divisional battles early in the season.