The Texas Rangers look to keep their modest winning streak rolling on Wednesday night as they send Alexi Ogando to the mound to take on James Shields and the Tampa Bay Rays in the middle game of a three game set.
Ogando was pounded by the Red Sox in his most recent outing, giving up six runs in four innings while serving up four home runs as well. Prior to the game, Ogando had given up just 12 home runs all season. Still, Ogando's numbers are excellent on the year, as he is the owner of a 3.57 ERA and 1.14 WHIP headed into Wednesday's contest against the Rays.
Texas' offense will be faced with another difficult task as the Rays send James Shields to the mound. Shields has been excellent for the Rays this year, spinning 10 complete games in 27 starts this season. Shields takes a 1.05 WHIP, .222 BAA and 2.96 ERA into the contest. He's struck out 191 in 201 innings of work on the season as well.
Texas still holds onto a 3.5 game lead in the AL West. The Angels take on the Mariners tonight as both teams send aces to the mound - Dan Haren for Los Angeles and Felix Hernandez for Seattle.
First pitch in Arlington is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. CDT.