Home / Sports / Mattingly Returns to Miami as Rival Manager
Mattingly Returns to Miami as Rival Manager
2 May
Summary
- Marlins begin 2026 season above expectations, Phillies struggle.
- Don Mattingly now manages Phillies, facing his former Marlins.
- Eury Pérez and Zack Wheeler to start on the mound.
The Miami Marlins are returning to South Florida for a series against the Philadelphia Phillies, having just secured an impressive win against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Marlins are performing at or above expectations early in the 2026 season, while the Phillies are experiencing a dismal start, leading to the recent dismissal of manager Rob Thomson.
The series holds significant intrigue due to the contrasting trajectories of both clubs and the presence of Don Mattingly, the former Marlins skipper, now managing the Phillies. This reunion adds a compelling narrative as a familiar face becomes a rival.
Marlins pitcher Eury Pérez, highly touted for his skills, has shown flashes of brilliance, including a strong outing on April 19 where he allowed only one unearned run over six innings. However, his other starts have seen him give up at least three runs, contributing to a 4.60 ERA.
Opposing Pérez will be Zack Wheeler, who recently returned from surgery. Wheeler's single start saw him allow two runs over five innings in a win against the Atlanta Braves. Both pitchers are looking to find their peak form during this matchup.
