Rangers plus $1.40 at Marlins
The Marlins have done a great job of regrouping after losing emerging superstar pitcher Jose Fernandez for the season. Now they host the pathetic Rangers in what appears to be a rest stop for Miami.
However, this game should be much more challenging for the Marlins than perceived.
The Rangers enter this matchup free and easy with a dose of confidence after edging the Angels this past Sunday in the final game of their homestand on a walkoff RBI single by Adam Rosales. Winning in that fashion against one of the best teams in baseball was a needed morale boost for Texas.
The Rangers should be into this matchup because Mike Mikolas is pitching. Yes, I know his season numbers show a 1-5 record and 7.71 ERA. But there are several factors pointing to Mikolas turning in a strong performance here.
Mikolas is fighting for a permanent spot in the Rangers’ rotation. He has been far more effective on the road where he is 1-1 with a 2.92 ERA compared to 0-4 with a 13.73 ERA in Arlington. Opponents are batting just .186 against Mikolas when he pitches on the road.
Mikolas certainly will be pumped for this start having grown up in Jupiter, Fla., which is about 90 miles north of Miami. This is his first start in his home area and he will get support.
The Marlins are going with Jarred Cosart, who the Astros gave up on this season. Cosart has a 4.27 ERA on the season and has a 6.00 ERA versus the Rangers this year in two outings. Cosart may develop with a change of scenery, but I have doubts.
