Sheffield’s Homer Gets Marlins Closer

Gary Sheffield homered with one out in the ninth inning and the Florida Marlins won in their final at-bat for the second consecutive night, defeating the slumping Baltimore Orioles, 7-6, Wednesday night.

With their sixth consecutive victory, the Marlins closed within 2 1/2 games of Atlanta, the National League East leader, for the first time since June 25.

“We’re coming closer to first place and that’s all that’s on my mind,” Sheffield said. “Hopefully, we’ll get into the playoffs and take the whole thing. My legs are starting to open up for me and that’s helping me hit right now. I can deal with the pain in my thumb, but the hamstring, that’s what’s been keeping me from hitting.”

Florida Manager Jim Leyland added: “This is getting to be an old story, tonight he helped our team win a game. Gary Sheffield contributes to this team in a heck of a lot of ways. People look at his numbers and think he doesn’t contribute, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth.”

Baltimore has lost five in a row for the first time since ending a season-high losing streak at six on July 13.

The Marlins, who trailed, 6-3, in the sixth, came from behind to win for the 39th time this season. They finished 12-3 in interleague play, tying Montreal for best in the majors. Baltimore was 8-7 against the NL.

“We’re playing great right now, I feel like we can beat anybody,” Florida’s Moises Alou said. “This is the first time I’ve felt like this in a while.”

Sheffield’s 17th homer, against Shawn Boskie (6-6), gave the Marlins their 22nd victory in their final at-bat.

Jay Powell (5-2) pitched a perfect ninth inning for the Marlins.

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)

NEXT SERIES FOR DODGERS

WHO: Florida Marlins

WHERE: Dodger Stadium

WHEN: Friday: 7 p.m.; Saturday: 1 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m.; Monday 7 p.m.