Unless the Rangers want to be pushed to the brink of elimination, they're going to have to win Game 3 of the ALDS -- and that's not going to be an easy task. As the series shifts to Tampa Bay, the pitching matchups do as well, at least for Game 3. David Price starts for the Rays in Game 3 against Colby Lewis.
Price enjoyed his finest season as a member of the Rays this season, despite the 12-13 record. Price's 1.14 WHIP was the best of his career, and his 212 strikeouts this season represents a career high. Price's FIP and xFIP are also better than his numbers in those categories in 2010 -- despite having a 2.72 ERA in 2010 compared to a 3.49 ERA in 2011.
Still, Price can be hit. He made two starts against the Rangers this year, going 0-1 with a 3.21 ERA in 14 innings in those two starts. Price allowed 16 baserunners in 14 innings (13 by hit, 3 by walk) while striking out 13.
Colby Lewis starts for Texas -- and it's a good thing he's starting in Tampa Bay as opposed to Arlington. Lewis surrendered 35 home runs this season, but 22 of those came at home in just 92 and 2/3 innings pitched, compared to 13 allowed on the road in 107 and 2/3 innings.
Lewis did face the Rays once this season, pitching eight innings of shutout ball, allowing just four hits while walking two and striking out eight en route to the win. That start did come at Tropicana Field, which is of course the site for Game 3 of the ALDS.
First pitch from the Trop is scheduled for 4:07 p.m. CDT, 5:07 locally in Tampa Bay. Televised coverage can be found on TBS.