Ryan Braun, Matt Clark starting for Brewers vs Marlins

Ryan Braun is back in the lineup for the Brewers on Thursday after taking the day off Wednesday and leaving Tuesday's game in the seventh inning. Braun, of course, has been struggling to stay in the lineup as he deals with a thumb injury that appears to be getting worse as the season goes on.

Ron Roenicke continues to keep Braun in the five spot of the order after recently moving him back. Since the beginning of August, the right fielder has hit just .232/.284/.376 with four home runs. His OPS over that time is only eight points better than Yuniesky Betancourt's in 2011.

Also in the starting lineup is Matt Clark, who appears to be gaining trust with Brewers' management as they try to find any semblance of offense from first base. Clark hit his first career major league home run last night and brought in two RBI after destroying minor league pitching all season. Meanwhile, Lyle Overbay has two hits in his last 20 PA and Mark Reynolds has an .091/.216/.114 line since his last home run on August 15.

Another lineup change is Gerardo Parra remaining in the starting lineup, this time for Khris Davis. Parra is, of course, the stronger defensive player and will provide benefit in that regard, though Davis has been a steady hitter for Milwaukee this year. That said, Davis has not had a day off since August 28 and could perhaps use a rest.