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The streaky Texas Rangers have an opportunity to complete a three-game road sweep on Sunday as they face the struggling Pittsburgh Pirates in the finale of a brief homestand for the home team.
Pittsburgh’s Punchless Offense
The main story for the Pirates has been a complete inability to generate any consistent offense. They have lost six of their last seven games, and their .225 team batting average entering Saturday was the worst in the National League. During their current slump, the Pirates have been held to six or fewer hits in five of those seven games. The lack of production has been especially glaring in their losses; the team has scored three or fewer runs in each of their last 10 defeats dating back to the beginning of June.
“We just have to find a way,” manager Don Kelly said. “We got to find a way to come through with guys on base.”
Falter’s Frustrating Season
The lack of run support has been especially tough on Sunday’s starter for Pittsburgh, lefty Bailey Falter (5-3, 3.49 ERA). Falter has been solid, avoiding a personal loss since late April, but he’s been stuck with five no-decisions in his last nine starts simply because his offense provides no support. In his only career start against the Rangers back in 2023, he pitched well but took a 2-1 loss after giving up a solo home run to Josh Jung.
The Streaky Rangers Seek Consistency
Texas has been a true team of streaks lately. They entered last week on a four-game winning streak, looking like one of the best teams in the league, but were promptly swept in three games at home by the Kansas City Royals. Now, they have won the first two games in Pittsburgh and are looking to build a new winning streak and head to their next series on a high note.
Texas Battles the Injury Bug
The Rangers’ quest for consistency will be tested as they now have to navigate an injury to one of their top power hitters. First baseman Jake Burger, whose 10 home runs and 13 doubles both rank second on the team, was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday with a strained oblique. His absence removes a significant power threat from the middle of the order. Utility man Ezequiel Duran is expected to see more playing time in his place.
“I’d like to give Zeke some runway here,” manager Bruce Bochy said. “I think he’s been swinging better, and he gives us a good option there at first base.” The impact of key injuries is a major factor in our expert betting guide.
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A Duel of Pitchers Needing a Win
Sunday’s pitching matchup features two arms looking for a good outing. While Falter seeks run support, the Rangers will start rookie right-hander Jack Leiter. The former No. 2 overall pick has struggled in his last two starts, allowing 10 earned runs on 13 hits and six walks in just 9 2/3 innings. This matchup between a hard-luck veteran and a struggling rookie presents an interesting challenge on the scores and odds board. As two MLB teams with different issues try to find a win, the pitching will be key. To see who our experts are backing, check out our daily MLB picks.
