There is a Texas team tied atop the American League West, and not the one from Houston. The Rangers sit at 7-5 while the Astros are at 6-7 in the division.
Both clubs are dealing with injury. The ‘Stros lost Jose Altuve to the World Baseball Classic and the Rangers losing Corey Seager earlier this week.
It has been a long time since the Rangers had a better record than the Astros at any point of the season. I still believe the Astros are the best team in the division.
Texas has also had some rough bullpen outings, prompting them to send Taylor Hearn down to Round Rock. His 10.29 ERA wasn’t cutting it.
Overall the bullpen has been good. Bruce Bochy is sending a message that he wants to win now. Players should take note.
The Houston series this weekend is a great test. The Rangers have a history of playing down to their opponents.
Houston has dominated the Rangers the past few seasons. Especially at Minute Maid Park.
The Rangers could use a good weekend series. They have Martin Perez, Jon Gray and Andrew Heaney going this weekend.
Perez and Gray have been very consistent in 2023 (Perez 2.53 ERA, Gray 3.00 ERA) and should continue to be.
If the Heaney from his last start shows up the Rangers are good on Sunday.
The Astros may be down, but they are not out by any means. The Rangers need to take advantage of the opportunity this weekend to win the series.
I would consider 2 out of 3 a success over the weekend. Let’s hope they can get it done on the offensive side and stay atop the division.
