Rangers face pivotal matinee against Brewers as wild card aspirations intensify
The Texas Rangers are gearing up for a crucial showdown with the Milwaukee Brewers as they conclude a three-game series this Wednesday afternoon at Globe Life Field. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Texas, who finds themselves in a tight race for the American League wild card.
A Game of Consequences
While the Rangers have fought their way back into contention after a season spent hovering around the .500 mark, they still trail the Seattle Mariners for the final wild card spot. A win today is essential for Texas, as a loss would severely hinder their chances of advancing to the postseason. In contrast, the Brewers, leading the National League Central by a comfortable margin, are less impacted by the outcome of this game but will certainly aim to maintain their momentum.
How to Watch
Fans can catch the action on Wednesday, September 10, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on the Rangers Sports Network and Victory+. For those in Wisconsin, the Brewers’ broadcast will be available on FanDuel Sports Network. Out-of-market viewers can tune in through MLB Network. Radio coverage will be provided by 105.3 The Fan and 1270 KFLC-AM in Spanish for the Rangers, while WTMJ 620 will carry the Brewers’ broadcast.
Probable Pitchers
On the mound for Texas will be right-hander Merrill Kelly, who has been a solid addition to the rotation since his trade. With an impressive record of 11-7 and a 3.16 ERA, Kelly has shown consistency, striking out seven and allowing just one earned run in his last outing against the Houston Astros. His performance has been notable, pitching at least six innings in his last three starts, and he comes into this game with a combined total of 156 strikeouts across the season.
Opposing him will be the Brewers’ Freddy Peralta, who boasts a record of 16-5 and a stellar 2.50 ERA. Peralta is quietly making a strong case for the National League Cy Young Award, with an impressive 1.46 ERA over his last seven games. In his most recent start against the Phillies, he limited them to only two hits and no runs over five innings while striking out eight. Both pitchers will be making their 30th starts of the season, showcasing the depth and talent on both sides.
Injury Updates
Injuries have taken a toll on the Rangers, impacting their depth as they approach the end of the season. Key players on the injured list include:
Danny Coulombe, LHP: Recovering from left shoulder fatigue with a scheduled rehab assignment starting Friday.
Nathan Eovaldi, RHP: Expected to miss the remainder of the regular season due to a right rotator cuff strain.
Adolis Garcia, OF: Nearing a return after a left quad strain, with hopes to be back for the Houston Astros series.
Corey Seager, SS: Could potentially rejoin the team for the next home series against the Miami Marlins following an appendectomy.
Marcus Semien, 2B: Facing a lengthy recovery from a foot injury, requiring four to six weeks.
Sam Haggerty, OF: Anticipated to begin a rehab assignment soon.
The Rangers also have several players on the 60-day injured list, including Evan Carter, who is out for the season due to a wrist fracture, and Jon Gray, who has been sidelined with shoulder nerve issues.
As the Rangers face the Brewers, the urgency is palpable. A victory could rejuvenate their wild card campaign, while a loss could leave them searching for answers as the season races toward its conclusion. The matinee promises to be an intense battle, with both teams aiming to solidify their respective goals.
