Kendrick, whose 9.14 ERA through his last five starts has left him on the precipice of being removed from the Phillies' rotation, will start against the Marlins at Citizens Bank Park. Right-hander Brett Myers will start Wednesday's series finale.

Beyond that, though, the rotation is in flux.

Pitching coach Rich Dubee said Monday that 45-year-old left-hander Jamie Moyer is being considered to start on short rest Thursday night against the Brewers in the opener of a four-game series that might have wild-card implications. Moyer will throw a bullpen session Tuesday.

"Talking to Jamie, he thinks he's capable of doing it," Dubee said.

The Phils also could give rookie lefty J.A. Happ a spot start Thursday night, leaving Moyer to pitch on his normal rest Friday night and ace lefty Cole Hamels to pitch on an extra day of rest Saturday. Barring any other schedule changes, Myers, Moyer and Hamels -- the Phillies' top three starters -- would be lined up to pitch in the final regular-season series, Sept. 26-28 against Washington.

First, though, they need a strong outing from Kendrick.

"Hopefully his head is clear," said Dubee, who has taken a tough-love approach to Kendrick. "I had him go down to the bullpen, mingle with those guys a little and clear his head. I think he's going to be more aggressive. His attitude seems better."

Said Kendrick, "There's no doubt I've had some bad outings, but I've had some good ones this year, too. I just have to be aggressive and get back on the right track."

PHILLIES 8, MARLINS 6: Jayson Werth belted a three-run home run in the seventh inning Monday night to help the Phillies to a victory in the series opener against the Marlins at Citizens Bank Park. Jimmy Rollins got three hits and stole three bases, moving into a fourth-place tie on the Phillies' all-time list with 289 career steals. Brad Lidge put two runners on base in the ninth inning before striking out the final two batters to secure his 35th save in as many opportunities.