MLB
Pirates welcome the Texas Rangers
We are only a full month and some change into this year’s Major League baseball season. The Pirates have already had eight days off thus far and a good bit a Inter League action. After taking two of three from the Oakland Athletics, the Pirates welcome the Texas Rangers.
Facing the Texas Rangers
Both the Pittsburgh Pirates and Texas Rangers not long ago faced each other in a two game series in Arlington, Texas. On top of that, the Pirates ended up sweeping the Rangers in Arlington for the first time ever. This week, both teams will square off in another mini two-game series in Pittsburgh.
Last series against the Rangers
As mentioned above both teams faced each other last week in Arlington where the Pirates swept the series. The Pirates won game one by a final score of 6-4 and also took game two 7-5.
Pitching match-up
On Tuesday night, both teams will send pitchers the mound that pitched in last Tuesday’s game. For the Pirates, they’ll send LHP Steven Brault (0-1, 8.31 ERA, 11 strikeouts). In Brualt’s last outing against the Rangers, he pitched two scoreless innings of relief striking out three Rangers. Steven Brault is making the start due to two starters (Jameson Taillon and Chris Archer) both out.
For the Rangers, they’ll send RHP Adrian Sampson (0-1, 3.58 ERA, 19 strikeouts) to the mound. In Sampson’s last outing against the Pirates, Sampson threw 5 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing five hits, struck out five and did not allow a walk. Sampson also hasn’t allowed a run in his last 9 2/3 innings pitched over his last three appearances.
Pirates hitting off Sampson
Some Pirates’ hitters are having some success against Sampson. Those player’s are Josh Bell (.333 batting average, 3 at-bats), Adam Frazier (.333 batting average, 3 at-bats), Colin Moran (.500 batting average, 2 at-bats) and Gregory Polanco (.333 batting average, 3 at-bats).
Conclusion
The Pirates and Rangers will kick off another short mini two-game series this time in Pittsburgh. Pirates are looking to gain momentum since after tomorrow’s game they’ll hit the road for an extended road trip.
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Written by Tom Johnston
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Photo credit to Pirates via Twitter
