Despite owning a 2-1 series lead in the ALCS, Game 4 certainly seems like a must-win game for the Texas Rangers. A win on Wednesday would at worst guarantee the Rangers a 3-2 ALCS lead headed back to Arlington. A loss, however, would have the series even at two games a piece, with Justin Verlander waiting in Detroit to pitch Game 5.
Matt Harrison starts for the Rangers in Game 4, looking to give the Rangers a commanding 3-1 ALCS lead. Harrison started the clinching game of the ALDS against the Rays, but lasted only five innings before being relieved by Derek Holland. Harrison allowed two runs on five hits while walking two and striking out nine.
Harrison has recovered nicely from a rough August, when he allowed opponents to hit .299 off of him in 29 and 2/3 innings, while giving up 23 runs (20 earned). In September, Harrison had a 2.64 ERA in 30 and 2/3 innings, limiting opposing hitters to a .241 average against.
In 2011, Harrison made two starts against the Tigers, receiving the loss in both games. Between the two starts, Harrison pitched 10 innings, giving up eight runs (seven earned) on 17 hits and five walks while striking out eight.
New Jersey native Rick Porcello starts for the Tigers, as they look to avoid being on the brink of elimination. Porcello has made two appearances so far in the playoffs: picking up the loss in the fourth game of the ALDS against the Yankees, and making a brief relief appearance against the Rangers in Game 1 of the ALCS.
Porcello did make one start against the Rangers this season, picking up the win after pitching six innings, allowing one run on six hits and a walk while striking out tow.
First pitch is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. CT from Comerica Park in Detroit. Televised coverage can be found nationally on FOX.