Bender will serve as the Marlins' opening pitcher in Thursday's game against the Padres, Jordan McPherson of the Miami Herald reports.
The newly recalled Jordan Holloway is expected to serve as the Marlins' primary bulk reliever behind Bender, who will be making his first career start in the big leagues. The 26-year-old rookie has only one save to his name, but he's arguably been the Marlins' most reliable reliever this season. Through 31 appearances spanning 31.2 innings, Bender has posted a 2.27 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 40:8 K:BB.