"I've got one more start here, and that's all that matters," Burnett said of his apparent plans for free agency.

Burnett complained about a lack of positive reinforcement - seemingly from manager Jack McKeon and the Marlins' coaching staff.

"It's depressing around here," he said. "There's nothing positive around here. There's nothing positive on the staff now.

"You give up one home run, and it's a funeral. ... A positive pat on the back is better than anything. I haven't seen a pat on the back since April."

Asked who he was targeting with his criticism, Burnett said, "I'm not naming names."

Unable to hold a 3-0 lead Sunday, Burnett fell to 12-12 with his sixth straight loss.

Despite his skid, Burnett has a 3.44 ERA and ranks among the NL leaders with 198 strikeouts - including eight Sunday - and four complete games.

As one of the top power pitchers in the game, Burnett would rank among the most attractive free agents this winter.

McKeon said Burnett was speaking out of frustration Sunday.

"Everybody gets frustrated at times," McKeon said. "I think sometimes you've got to look in the mirror. He's just frustrated. We certainly don't play. None of the coaches pitch or hit."

Added McKeon: "This is a tough job playing in the big leagues. You're on a stage, everybody's on a stage. Everybody has to be held accountable."

Burnett was asked if something happened during Sunday's loss - which dropped Florida five games behind Houston with six to play - to spark his strong words.

"Not today, the season," Burnett said. "It's a waste. ... Kids are out there busting their butts, and there's still nothing but negativity."

McKeon said he couldn't explain Burnett's losing streak.

"He was still throwing 98 miles per hour," McKeon said. "This guy can pitch a no-hitter any day. But you can't walk leadoff batters."

Burnett also ranks among the NL leaders with 79 walks, including four Sunday. He walked Chipper Jones to open the fourth inning and pinch-hitter Kelly Johnson to open the seventh, when the Braves took the lead. Both runners scored.