Somehow the Rangers found to win in three of Tyson Ross’ last three starts. Ross’ command was a mess during that stretch, wherein he’s issued 15 walks. The Rangers went 3-0 in those games, thanks to a robust offense that outscored opponents, 23-16.
It’s not always that Ross is going to be saved by Texas’ offense and his wayward pitching could catch up to him later tonight. Ross is 3-2 with a 7.02 ERA in nine starts this season with a 1.65 WHIP.
Speaking of the offense, the Rangers could make a killing at the plate, as they face the bumbling Ricky Nolasco of the Angels. The current Texas lineup has a career batting average of .322 opposite Nolasco with Adrian Beltre owning a 4-for-5 line. It’d help the offense if Carlos Gomez would be healthy and available, as he’s 5-for-14 with a pair of homers off of Nolasco.
Nolasco hasn’t been the most reliable of pitchers for bettors to trust, but if his last start was any indication, the 11-year veteran could be in line for a good performance ahead.
Nolasco, who is 6-12 with a 5.16 ERA in 25 starts this year, tamed the Washington Nationals’ offense in a 3-2 win on Aug. 16. In that game, Nolasco allowed just two earned runs on five hits in 5.2 innings of mound action. The Angels’ bullpen has been decent this season, so in case Nolasco gets another short outing, LA’s relievers could take care of the game the rest of the way. The Angels’ bullpen has the fourth lowest ERA in the American League with 3.82.
As usual, Mike Trout is going to be a man to watch every time he steps on the plate. Trout is batting .338 so far this August with seven homers and 14 RBI’s.
