2023 ALCS - Games 3, 4, and 5 @ Globe Life Field

Astros (90-72) @ Rangers (90-72) - TEX leads 2-0

The Rangers went into Houston, dominated, and now they head back to Arlington up two games to none in this series. Montgomery and Eovaldi were outstanding, the bats came through in big moments, and the bullpen held on to shut the door. In all facets of the game they have outplayed their rival Astros, but don’t assume that will continue with the change in venue. Heading into this series, the Astros were 6-1 this year at Globe Life Field, including the last five in a row. Houston’s big bats have clobbered the Texas pitching staff in Arlington. All year Dusty Baker’s guys have been road warriors, boasting a 51-30 record away from Minute Maid Park. They will need to continue that trend to stay alive in this series.

Mad Max Scherzer returns from a triceps injury to start game 3 for the Rangers, with Christian Javier opposing him for Houston. It’s been nearly a month since the future Hall-of-Famer has pitched competitively, so how much will Bruce Bochy get out of him? As for Javier, he’s been nearly untouchable in the playoffs for his career. In game 4, Andrew Heaney and José Urquidy will start, but expect their managers to have very short leashes. If the Astros extend the series, game 5 will be a rematch of game 1, with Montgomery and Verlander facing off once again. With the AL Pennant on the line, these two instate rivals will deliver some of the best on-field drama of recent postseason memory.

Audio clips from MLB.tv

TEX Radio 105.3 KRLD - Eric Nadel and Matt Hicks

HOU Radio 790 KBME - Robert Ford and Steve Sparks

Catch you next time,

P.C.O.