Rangers and Astros set for pivotal Silver Boot clash
The Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros are gearing up for a crucial three-game series that could define the playoff landscape in the American League. The matchup kicks off on Monday at Daikin Park, with both teams vying for what could be the final wild card spot.
Rangers in pursuit of postseason glory
With a current record of 79-71, the Rangers find themselves in a must-win situation as they chase down the Astros, who sit at 81-69. After a turbulent weekend, the Astros have relinquished their position at the top of the AL West, now trailing the Seattle Mariners, who are in first place with a record of 82-68. This series represents the last head-to-head meeting of the year in the Silver Boot Series, amplifying the stakes for both clubs.
Texas is two games back in the wild card race, and with only 12 games remaining in the regular season, there is no room for error. The urgency is palpable as the Rangers look to capitalize on this critical opportunity.
Game details for fans
For those eager to catch the action, here are the specifics:
Game Day: Monday, September 15
Game Time: 7:10 p.m. CT
Where to Watch:
– Rangers Sports Network and Victory+ (Rangers)
– Space City Home Network (Astros)
Listen Live:
– 105.3 The Fan/1270 KFLC-AM (Spanish) (Rangers)
– KBME 790 AM/94.5 FM HD-2, TUDN 93.3 FM (Astros)
Projected pitching matchups
As anticipation builds, both teams will rely on their starting pitchers to set the tone for the series.
Rangers: Jack Leiter (9-8, 3.81 ERA)
Jack Leiter, a promising young arm, has emerged as a key player for the Rangers this season. In his last outing against the Milwaukee Brewers, Leiter pitched 4.2 innings, allowing three earned runs on seven hits, while striking out four. He has shown resilience on the mound, and if he can limit his walks, he could be a critical factor in Texas’s pursuit of a playoff berth.
Astros: Jason Alexander (4-1, 4.19 ERA)
On the opposing side, Jason Alexander has been a revelation since being claimed off waivers from the Athletics. His ability to step into the Astros’ rotation during a time of injuries has been invaluable. In his most recent start against the Toronto Blue Jays, Alexander delivered seven innings of shutout baseball, giving up only three hits and one walk while striking out three. Over his last seven starts, he boasts an impressive 3-0 record with a 2.20 ERA, making him a formidable opponent for the Rangers.
Injury updates impacting the Rangers
The Rangers face several injury challenges as they enter this critical series:
Corey Seager, SS (10-day IL, appendectomy): Seager is eligible to return for the next home series against the Miami Marlins on September 19.
Marcus Semien, 2B (10-day IL, left foot contusion): Semien is scheduled for a hitting session in Houston on Monday.
Sam Haggerty, OF (10-day IL, left ankle inflammation): Haggerty recently rehabbed with Double-A Frisco.
Nathan Eovaldi, RHP (15-day IL, right rotator cuff strain): Eovaldi is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season.
Other players on the injured list include Evan Carter, Josh Sborz, and Jon Gray, with varying timelines for potential returns.
As the series unfolds, both teams will navigate their playoff aspirations amid the pressure of injuries and intense competition. The Silver Boot will be on the line, and each game could be pivotal in determining who secures a coveted spot in the postseason.
