Marlins Pitcher Breaks MLB Record in Miami’s Win Over Atlanta

September 25, 2015

Rick Nyman,

MIAMI (AP) – Jose Fernandez became the first pitcher in the modern era to win his first 17 career home decisions, overcoming a rough start Friday to help the Miami Marlins beat the Atlanta Braves 12-11.

Fernandez gave up a homer to Nick Markakis to start the game and allowed four runs in a 35-pitch first inning. He tied a career high by allowing six earned runs in five innings.

But the Marlins rallied with four runs in the first, led 11-4 by the fourth inning and totaled 20 hits in the matchup of the majors’ two lowest-scoring teams.

Rookie Justin Bour hit his 20th homer, and Dee Gordon’s three hits hiked his average to .332.

Fernandez (6-0) needed the support. He also needed 96 pitches to make it through five innings and qualify for the victory, which made him 17-0 in 26 home starts over his three-year career.