The Miami Marlins wrap up their 2026 regular season at home, hosting the Atlanta Braves at loanDepot park on Sunday, September 27 at 3:10 PM ET. Janson Junk gets the ball for Miami against Atlanta's JR Ritchie in what figures to be a meaningful final chapter for both clubs. Whether the Marlins are playing for pride, positioning, or something more, this is the last chance to make a statement in front of the home crowd before the offseason arrives. Catch the action on Marlins.TV presented by Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, CW 33 WBFS, or on 680 AM/93.7 FM The Fan.
Pitching Matchup: Janson Junk vs. JR Ritchie
Janson Junk has carved out a role in the Miami rotation and gets the assignment for the season finale. Junk is the kind of arm who keeps hitters off-balance rather than overpowering them — he works the zone, changes speeds, and needs his defense behind him to be effective. On a Sunday afternoon at loanDepot park, getting ahead in counts early will be the difference between a quality start and a short outing.
On the other side, the Braves send out JR Ritchie, a young arm still establishing himself at the big-league level. Ritchie represents the kind of pitcher Miami's lineup should be aggressive against from the first inning. Getting to him early — before he settles into a rhythm — is exactly the approach the Marlins need to prioritize.
Keys to Watch for Miami
- Jump on Ritchie early. Against a pitcher still finding his footing at the MLB level, the Marlins cannot afford to fall behind. First-inning production sets the tone and takes pressure off Junk.
- Junk's command. When Junk is on, he limits hard contact and keeps the ball in the park. When he loses the zone, Atlanta's lineup has the depth to make him pay quickly. Control of the strike zone is everything for him.
- Keep Atlanta's offense in check. The Braves are a dangerous club capable of putting up runs in bunches. Miami's bullpen will likely see action, and managing the late innings cleanly is critical to closing out the home schedule on a winning note.
- Take care of business at home. loanDepot park deserves a win to send the home faithful out satisfied heading into the offseason. This one matters for the culture of the clubhouse heading into 2027.
Prediction
This is a finale with real stakes from a pride standpoint, and Miami has the opportunity to finish strong in front of its home crowd. Junk is a capable enough arm to navigate the Atlanta lineup if he commands the ball well, and Ritchie gives the Marlins' offense a legitimate chance to score first. It won't be a blowout either way, but expect a competitive, tight game that comes down to the late innings. Give the edge to Miami, 4-2, sending loanDepot park home happy on the last day of the regular season.
