The Marlins went into the All-Star break 14 games over .500. Only the Braves had a better record in the National League.

Miami made the playoffs in the 60-game 2020 pandemic season. But the Marlins have not made it in a full campaign since they won the World Series in 2003. There was, rightfully, talk of the Marlins as trade-deadline buyers.

But the Marlins lost eight straight games after the All-Star break before gaining their first second-half win Sunday. They had fallen from leading the wild card to half a game out of the third and final spot.

That’s too close to surrender. But say the losing continues this week leading up to next Tuesday’s trade deadline? These Marlins will then have to look in the mirror and ask about their true abilities, especially if 2022 NL Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara is going to be a 4.70 ERA pitcher all season.