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Marlins open four-game set against Rockies

Jul 31, 2008 - 10:22 AM Colorado (49-60) at Florida (57-51), 7:10 pm EDT

MIAMI (Ticker) -- The Florida Marlins hope to inch closer to the top of the National League East when they host the Colorado Rockies on Thursday

The Marlins, who are coming off a 7-5 victory over the rival New York Mets on Wednesday, sit in third place in the division but 1 1/2 games behind the first-place Philadelphia Phillies (58-49).

Dan Uggla delivered a two-run shot - his 26th of the season - on Wednesday for Florida, which is currently involved in swirling trade rumors about Boston Red Sox slugger Manny Ramirez.

Marlins outfielders Jeremy Hermida and Josh Willingham have both been rumored to be involved in the potential blockbuster deal.

"I've heard them, but rumors are rumors until something happens," Hermida said. "You take them for what it's worth and just deal with something when it happens. It's something that is out of my hands. I definitely love it here and love the guys on this team and really enjoy playing here."

"This is the only organization I have known since 2000," Willingham added. "I was drafted by the Marlins so yeah definitely, it would be different. But we'll cross that bridge when (or) if it comes, but I'm not sure it will."

Florida should receive an emotional lift from the return of Anibal Sanchez (NR), who will make his 2008 debut. The righthander has not pitched since May 2, 2007, with a shoulder injury.

The Rockies, who avoided a three-game sweep with a 7-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, will send lefthander Jorge De La Rosa (5-5, 6.20 ERA) to the mound. He is seeking his third win in as many starts.