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Tonight's pitching matchup ended up being something of a philosophical exercise in what you want out of a No. 5 starting pitcher. Both guys, Nick Martinez and Brad Peacock are in their respective rotations because other guys are hurt so just their very existence in tonight's game represents a test of depth for both clubs.
One guy gave up a run and struck out ten. The other gave up two runs and struck out just one batter. So, yeah, obviously you want the first guy, right?
Well, Mr. Ten Strikeouts also walked four and was forced to exit after just 4 2/3 innings. Mr. One K did not walk anyone and was able to go six innings.
I'm not necessarily saying one is better than the other. Long term, you want the guy who can strike out ten. But for one game, when you're deep in your rotation options and need innings, give me the guy who can get you six.
The Rangers had the guy who went six tonight and eventually they came back to beat the Astros to return to .500.
Player of the Game: The Rangers trailed in this game 2-0 after George Springer led off the game with a home run. Carlos Correa added a solo shot of his own in the fourth. After Shin-Soo Choo walked with the bases loaded, the Rangers were down 2-1 which remained the score until the top of the seventh. That's when Rougned Odor took over in his favorite ballpark.
Rougie hit a solo home run off Chris Devenski that just barely cleared the fence in right field to tie the game. An inning later, after Jonathan Lucroy singled with two outs, Odor hit one into the Crawford Boxes to make it 4-2. Odor finished the night going 3-for-4 with two dongs and three RBIs. They were not saying ROOOOOUG in the stands.
Up Next: The Rangers go for a sweep and a perfect road trip with Andrew Cashner on the mound against RHP Francis Martes making the first start of his career. First pitch from Minute Maid Park is scheduled for 7:10 pm CT.