Marlins sticking with starters

Being officially eliminated from playoff contention doesn’t mean the Marlins won’t be running out their best available lineup.

Manager Fredi Gonzalez, realizing the Braves and Phillies this weekend, will be playing meaningful games. So the Marlins will not rest most of their regulars in their final four games.

“We’re going to try to play it as close as we can,” Gonzalez said.

Now, the Marlins will likely give a player or so a day of rest.

Hanley Ramirez, for instance, likely will be out of the lineup on Friday at Philadelphia. The Marlins are off on Thursday, so that would give the All-Star, who is leading the N.L. in hitting, a two-day breather.

Nick Johnson, who has been nursing the flu since last Friday, took batting practice on Wednesday in Atlanta. The team is hoping Johnson will be  able to start on Friday at Philadelphia.

The rotation against the Phillies will be Rick VandenHurk on Friday, Anibal Sanchez on Saturday and Josh Johnson on Sunday.

Cody Ross’ bruised left wrist is still bothering him. If he can play at Philadelphia, he will, but chances of that happening seem remote.

Gaby Sanchez could get a start at first base in one of the games at Philadelphia.

– Joe Frisaro