Bullpen making big contribution in June

MIAMI -- Timely hitting and strong starting pitching have led to the Marlins enjoying a strong June.

Not to be overlooked in the club's first winning month of the season is the bullpen. Actually, the relievers played a major role in the turnaround.

The Marlins' bullpen is 8-4 with a 2.65 ERA in June, compared with a 5-5 record and 4.05 ERA by the starters.

The 2.65 ERA in June is sixth-best among National League bullpens in the month. In Wednesday's 5-3 win over the Twins at Marlins Park, the bullpen chipped in with five scoreless innings.

Kevin Slowey collected the win, throwing three, while Mike Dunn pitched the eighth and Steve Cishek nailed down the ninth for the save.

"It's just everyone going out there, staying within themselves," Dunn said. "Guys are doing what they can do and not trying to do anything they can't. Guys are attacking hitters and making the hitter beat us on our pitches. Not having to give in and throwing them a cookie right down the middle at 2-0 and stuff. We're normally ahead in the count when everyone is pitching well."