MLB Betting – Rangers Will Extend Streak To Five

After a memorable night where Rangers third basement Michael Young became the all-time franchise leader in hits, the Rangers will keep rolling on Thursday.

MLB Game Odds:
Texas Rangers +130
Matt Harrison – (L)
Florida Marlins -150
Ricky Nolasco – (R)

Run Line:
Rangers +1.5 -160
Marlins -1.5 +140

Total:
9 O -110
9 U -110

Location: Sun Life Stadium – Miami, FL
Game Time: Thursday, June 17th, 2010 – 7:10 PM EST
TV: FSH, FSFL 

The Week That Was: Rangers 

For the Rangers, last week began with a big series win against the Mariners, further cementing Texas as a legit threat in the AL-West. Texas won three-of-four from their division rivals, outscoring the Mariners 31-6 in the three victories. Josh Hamilton had a killer series; he hit .375 with two home runs and nine RBI’s in the four-game set.  

Some of Texas’ momentum was stopped in game one of their interleague series against Milwaukee, as the Brewers won 4-2. However the Rangers were able to rebound, winning the next two games to take the weekend series. The rubber match saw the Rangers beat up Milwaukee ace Yovani Gallardo, which is no small feat.  

Texas continued their strong run against Florida, winning the first two games of the three game series. The first game was a nail-biter, as the Rangers scored two in the ninth inning off of Florida closer Leo Nunez; Texas won 3-2. The next game needed no such late-inning heroics, as Texas doubled up on the Marlins 6-3.  

The Week That Was: Marlins

Florida’s week began with a treat for those who enjoy a good ole fashioned pitching duel. Marlins’  ace Josh Johnson faced off against Roy Halladay, and it was good news for Florida fans as Johnson and the Fish came out with the 2-0 victory. Johnson pitched eight incredible innings, striking out five and allowing just three hits.  

The Marlins then had an interleague series against state-rival Tampa Bay, and were able to win twice in the three-game set. The opening game was an offensive showcase for both teams, with the Marlins coming out on top 14-9. After Tampa Bay squeaked out a 6-5 win the next day, Florida re-took control with a 6-1 victory in the rubber match.  

Interleague play continued in Texas, but the results have thus-far been unfortunate for Fish fans. The Marlins blew a ninth-inning lead in the opener, losing 3-2 to the Rangers. Yesterday was another mark in ‘loss’ column, as Texas came out on top 6-3.  

The Matchup

Matt Harrison has been bumped around from the starting rotation and the bullpen this season, and that inconsistency has taken a toll on his overall numbers. The 25-year old hasn’t pitched more than five innings in a game since May 7th, so it is unknown how well his arm will hold up as he makes his return to the rotation. However, his last appearance was encouraging (3 1/3 innings pitched, 0 runs, 0 walks, 2 strikeouts).

Ricky Nolasco has hit upon some tough times recently; in his last five starts, Nolasco is 1-3 with an 8.25 ERA. The right-hander couldn’t even pitch through the third inning in his last start, as he had already given up five runs and nine hits before nine outs were made. His numbers at home this year have been just as poor: in six starts, he’s 2-3 with a 5.73 ERA.  

MLB Betting Pick: Texas Rangers