The Miami Marlins welcome the Los Angeles Angels to loanDepot park on Sunday, August 9 for a 1:40 PM ET first pitch. Miami will send right-hander Ryan Gusto to the mound in what shapes up as a meaningful late-summer matchup. Opposing him will be Grayson Rodriguez, making this a compelling pitching duel to watch. With the dog days of August in full swing, every game carries weight as both clubs sort out where they stand heading toward the final stretch of the 2026 regular season. Catch the game locally on CW 33 WBFS or stream on Marlins.TV presented by Werner, Hoffman, Greig and Garcia, with radio coverage on WQAM 104.3 FM.
Marlins vs. Angels Pitching Matchup: Ryan Gusto vs. Grayson Rodriguez
Ryan Gusto takes the hill for Miami in what is a significant opportunity to make a statement at home. Gusto will need to command his pitches and work efficiently through an Angels lineup that is capable of putting runs on the board. The Marlins need quality innings from their starter to keep the bullpen fresh — that equation does not change regardless of the opponent or the month on the calendar.
Rodriguez takes the ball for Los Angeles. He is a pitcher with legitimate stuff, and Miami hitters will need to be disciplined and patient at the plate. Working deep in counts, taking quality at-bats, and putting the ball in play will be critical if the Marlins are going to get to Rodriguez early and build a lead.
Keys to Watch for the Miami Marlins
- Gusto's command: How Gusto establishes himself early in the game will set the tone. Limiting walks and getting ahead in counts will be the difference between a short outing and a quality start.
- Plate discipline against Rodriguez: Miami hitters must resist chasing early and force Rodriguez to work. Deep counts create opportunities and tire out opposing starters.
- Bullpen management: If Gusto can give the Marlins six-plus innings, manager Skip Schumaker has options. A short outing changes the calculus significantly in a one-run game.
- Home field energy: loanDepot park crowds can genuinely lift this team. A Sunday afternoon crowd in Miami has the potential to create real momentum behind the Marlins.
Marlins vs. Angels Prediction
This is a winnable game at home, and the Marlins need to treat it as exactly that. Ryan Gusto gets the nod in front of his home fans and will be motivated to deliver. If he can hold the Angels to three runs or fewer across six innings, Miami's offense should have enough to get the job done. Look for the Marlins to take care of business at loanDepot park. Miami wins, 4-2.
