August 20, 09:05 MLB Texas Pittsburgh Overseas Baseball Analysis Sports Analysis
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The Texas Rangers, who escaped a losing streak thanks to a last-minute error by their opponent, will have José Ureña (3 wins, 8 losses, 4.15 ERA) attempting to secure his 4th win of the season. Ureña, who suffered a loss on August 14th in Boston after giving up 6 runs in 4.2 innings, has struggled this month with 3 losses and a 10.66 ERA. Given his poor performance since being switched to a starting pitcher, the key factor will be whether he can endure 5 innings in this game. The Texas lineup, which managed to score 6 runs including 2 home runs against Minnesota's bullpen after being thoroughly shut down by López, will need to maintain their late-game focus. Scenes like 5 runs in an inning are not common. It’s unfortunate that the one hit allowed by the bullpen during 7 innings of 1 hit and 1 run came as a game-tying home run in the 9th inning after Mally was removed from the game.
The Pittsburgh Pirates, who suffered a heavy defeat due to a collapsing pitching staff, will have Luis Ortiz (5 wins, 3 losses, 3.41 ERA) attempting to secure his 6th win of the season. Ortiz lost on August 14th after giving up 2 runs on 3 hits over 5 innings in San Diego, but there are some positive signs as his pitching has slowly been improving. However, considering it's an away game, he is expected to allow 2-3 runs in 5 innings. The Pittsburgh lineup, which only managed 3 runs against Kirby and Bosh, with a 2-run homer from Joey Bart, seems to have lost all momentum. Ending with only 5 hits raises concerns for this series. Rider Ryan, who allowed 3 runs in 2.2 innings, might be facing his final season in MLB.
Considering the starting pitchers for both teams, this game may develop into a relatively tight contest. However, the stability of the bullpens is lacking; while Pittsburgh suffered a complete defeat the previous day, Texas rallied for a comeback, and the difference in momentum will play a key role. Home-field advantage suggests the Texas Rangers are closer to victory.
Predicted score: 6-5, Texas wins.
Handicap: Pittsburgh wins.
Over/Under: Over.