Spring Training Report: Marlins top O’s in 11-6 slugfest
FORT LAUDERDALE – Emilio Bonifacio enhanced his chance of making the Florida Marlins roster with a big day at the plate.
Bonifacio had a bases-clearing triple and drove in five runs, leading the Marlins to an 11-6 victory over the Baltimore Orioles Thursday.
“It’s good to see (Bonifacio) swinging from both sides,” Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez said. “I think this guy’s going to hit and cause havoc on base. For him to have the spring training he’s having, it’s always good to have some success.”
Acquired from Washington in the trade that sent left-hander Scott Olsen and outfielder Josh Willingham to the Nationals, Bonifacio is a second baseman who has had little offensive success in the major leagues and whose position in Florida is blocked by Dan Uggla. So the Marlins have tried him at third base and the outfield in addition to his natural position this spring.
Bonifacio hit his third triple of the spring off Hayden Penn during a five-run second, then singled in two runs off Baltimore closer George Sherrill in a four-run third. Bonifacio’s 12 RBI lead the Marlins.
Florida right-hander Anibel Sanchez got the victory despite allowing six runs on 12 hits over five innings.
Adam Jones hit a two-run homer for the Orioles. Ross finished with three hits for Florida.