Washington Nationals
From a 12-game one-run streak to a playoff berth in their first season under Skip Schumaker.
The 2023 season marked a historic turning point for the Miami Marlins, who secured their first non-losing full season since 2009 and returned to the playoffs for the first time since the abbreviated 2020 campaign. Under new manager Skip Schumaker, the team achieved an 81-win record, improving upon their previous 69–93 finish from 2022. This resurgence was fueled by a remarkable start, including a record-breaking run of consecutive one-run victories that redefined early-season momentum for the franchise.
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Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
The defining narrative of the 2023 campaign was the team's unprecedented ability to win close games. After dropping their season opener 9-8, the Marlins rattled off 12 straight one-run victories from April 1 to April 16, falling just short of the MLB record held by the 1943 St. Louis Cardinals (13–0). This resilience carried them through the year, culminating in a playoff berth on September 30—though they lost their own game that day, they clinched only after the Cubs lost. Earlier, a victory against the Milwaukee Brewers on September 24 secured their 81st win, officially ending a drought of non-losing seasons that dated back to when they were still the Florida Marlins in 2009.
In Their Own Story
The season concluded with high stakes and ultimate heartbreak. On September 30, the Marlins clinched their first playoff berth since 2020 and their first full-season appearance since 2003. However, their journey ended swiftly against the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL Wild Card Series (NLWCS), where they suffered a two-game sweep. The team played all 81 home games at LoanDepot Park before a total attendance of 1,162,819 fans.
Reader's Guide
For fans tracking this specific season, the key dates are May 10, when the one-run game record was set; September 3, where a win over Washington improved their standing; and September 24, the date of their 81st win against Milwaukee that guaranteed a non-losing record. The team played as members of the National League East under Skip Schumaker's management for the first time. While they advanced to the postseason, the schedule ended with a sweep by the Phillies in the NLWCS. Any discussion of this year must focus on these specific turning points: the 12–0 one-run start and the final record of 81 wins.
Did You Know?
- The Marlins won their 12th consecutive one-run game on April 16, not May 10, just short of the MLB record (13–0) set by the 1943 St. Louis Cardinals.
- This was the franchise's first non-losing full season since 2009, when they were known as the Florida Marlins.
- The team secured their first playoff berth in a full season since 2003 by clinching on September 30, but only after the Cubs lost; the Marlins lost their own game that day.
- Skip Schumaker led the Marlins for the first time in 2023 after the team improved from a 69–93 record the prior year.
- The Marlins were swept in two games by the Philadelphia Phillies to end their season in the NL Wild Card Series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Washington Nationals?
The Washington Nationals are an MLB team based in D.C., serving as the Marlins' primary divisional rival within the National League East. They have a long history of competitive matchups against Miami, including playoff battles and intense regular-season series.
What is the significance of the rivalry between the Marlins and Nationals?
This rivalry defines the NL East standings for both franchises, as their head-to-head results often determine division titles or wild card spots. The intensity peaks during critical seasons like 2023, where every win against Washington directly impacts playoff hopes.
How did the Marlins' 2023 season compare to previous years regarding this rivalry?
In 2023, Miami secured their first non-losing record since 2009 under manager Skip Schumaker, finishing with 81 wins after a dismal 69–93 campaign in 2022. This resurgence allowed them to challenge rivals like Washington more effectively and return to the playoffs.
What specific momentum shift helped Miami compete against strong opponents like Washington?
The team started the season with a franchise-record streak of 12 consecutive one-run victories, establishing early confidence that carried through their divisional games. This unique run set the tone for a historic turnaround under new leadership.
Why do fans care about the Marlins-Nationals matchups?
Fans view these games as crucial because they often decide who advances to October baseball in a tightly contested division. The 2023 season highlighted this importance, as Miami's ability to beat teams like Washington was key to their playoff berth.