The Texas Rangers head to Tampa Bay on Monday to open a three game set against the Rays. It will mark the first time that Texas has visited Tropicana Field since the Rangers defeated the Rays in Game 5 of the 2010 ALDS. The Rangers won the ALDS behind the pitching of Cliff Lee and C.J. Wilson - a pair of lefties. On Monday, Texas will send a different lefty to take on the Rays: Derek Holland.
Holland has been mediocre through 10 starts this season. Despite owning a 3-1 record, Holland is also the owner of a 4.68 ERA, 1.53 WHIP and .296 BAA. Holland's most recent start came against the White Sox, but a rain delay forced Holland to leave the game after just four innings. Holland had allowed four runs on four hits (two home runs), while striking out four and walking one.
The Rays will send Wade Davis to the mound against the Rangers on Monday night. Davis is the owner of a 4-4 record to go along with a 3.71 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and .258 BAA. While those numbers are solid, Davis has issued 28 free passes on the year while striking out only 30 - an alarming ratio.
First pitch is scheduled for 5:40 p.m. CDT.