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After season of bonding, Marlins face questions
- Updated: October 3, 2016
WASHINGTON — The Marlins’ 10-7 loss to the Nationals on Sunday at Nationals Park in many ways was a microcosm of their season.
Down by three runs early, the Marlins rallied back off National League Cy Young Award candidate Max Scherzer, and they pulled even in the fifth inning. But whatever gains they made, they gave back up, and Washington was able to hold on and take two of three in the series.
When Xavier Scruggs grounded out to third base for the final out, it closed the book on Miami’s 79-82 campaign.
Don Mattingly’s first season as manager had so much hope. The Marlins were 57-48 on July 31, and serious postseason contenders. But they dealt with a string of injuries in August, and on Sept. 25, they were jolted by the unfathomable news that All-Star pitcher Jose Fernandez died in a boating accident.
“I’m just proud of the way they handled this week,” Mattingly said. “We’re trying to grow a team in every sense of the word. I think this season really bonds that.
“It wasn’t easy, but they dealt with it as a …
