Series Preview: Blue Jays Have Rangers in Their Crosshairs

Aug 23, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Texas Rangers designated hitter Mike Napoli (25) receives congratulations from Rougned Odor (12) after he hits a home run in the eighth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Across the Diamond: Texas Rangers

Toronto Blue Jays

The Rangers were on the periphery for much of the season. There were times it looked like they were going to barrel their way up to meet their state rivals on top of the AL West. But injuries to a few key players kept them hovering around and now they find themselves still up for a playoff spot but more so on the Wild Card side. After a year off from injury Prince Fielder is back on top of his game (.320/.385/.483) and carrying the offense along with Rougned Odor who is having a very nice sophmore season (.276/.330/.464).

The pitching is generally what has kept the Rangers in contention. Yovani Gallardo(3.25 ERA) has been the best of a decent enough rotation that still hurts from the loss of Yu Darvish. Cole Hamels has been OK, but not the lights out starter that they envisioned him to be (4.73 ERA in 4 starts) and Derek Holland has been pretty good in his 2 starts since coming back from injury (3.68 ERA). Unfortunately for the Rangers their home stadium in Arlington is a pitchers nightmare at times and considering how the Blue Jays are settling in to their role of beating down every opponent with their bats it could be a long 3 games…..hee hee hee.

Next: Game 1: Buehrle vs Holland