All series talk goes in here. Non series talk goes somewhere else. No PBP, that can be found from other sources if you need it. All games are broadcast on AT&T Sports SW unless otherwise noted. 4-1 Brad Peacock (R) vs. Drew Smyly (L) 7:05 4-2 Justin Verlander (R) vs. Shelby Miller (R) 7:05 4-3 Gerrit Cole (R) vs. Mike Minor (L) 7:05 All games should also be on FSSW for the non ATT people.
So my El Cunado made sure to mention that the Rangers are playing the last place Astros today. Bury them, please.
I don't love the matchup tonight. The Rangers have 6 left handed or switch hitters on their roster. Peacock gave up 8 of his 11 HRs last year to lefties. Lefties hit at a .959 OPS compared to righties hit .589 OPS against Peacock. His career numbers aren't quite that bad but still not good against lefties. He really needs that changeup tonight.
That lineup looks much better than the Tampa series. If you hit a HR you play the next game, isn't that the rule. Maybe this is finally the year for Marisnick, probably not, but what the hell. Good spring and a good start.
FYI, Boston 1-3 NYY 1-2 Indians 1-2 All the top AL teams lost their first series and sit in their respective cellars.