Los Angeles Angels vs. Texas Rangers: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 18, 2024

Published on:
May 18, 2024 7:46 AM
The Los Angeles Angels look to build on their series lead as they face off against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Saturday, May 18, at 7:15 PM. The Angels, currently 17-28 overall, will aim to capitalize on their 11-12 road record, while the Rangers, 23-23 overall, will fight to even the series in front of their home crowd. Expect a thrilling matchup as these American League foes clash in Arlington.
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Los Angeles Angels
Texas Rangers

Angels vs Rangers starting pitchers

  • Jose Urena for Texas Rangers
  • Patrick Sandoval for Los Angeles Angels

Angels vs Rangers game preview

Tonight's MLB showdown features Patrick Sandoval on the mound for the Los Angeles Angels against Jose Urena for the Texas Rangers. Sandoval, sporting an ERA of 5.00 and a WHIP of 1.53 this season, has had his struggles, notably with controlling opponents' hits and managing his pitch count. In contrast, Urena brings a more modest ERA of 3.62 and a WHIP of 1.24, displaying tighter control and efficiency in his innings.

The Angels, with Sandoval at the helm, need to rally their offense to back him up effectively. Ranking 8th in hits and tied 10th in home runs, they certainly have the firepower with hitters like Taylor Ward, who leads the team with a .273 batting average, but they're middle-of-the-pack in runs scored. With Mike Trout on the 10-day IL, the rest of the team will need to step up, especially since their lackluster walk rates (25th in the league) aren't helping them get on base as often as they might like. The key for the Angels will be to capitalize on scoring opportunities when they arise.

Meanwhile, the Rangers look solid this season, specifically in the batter’s box, ranking 5th in both runs scored and hits. Urena stepping up as a dependable starter has been a boon amidst their generally robust pitching staff. Given their limited base-stealing ability, the Rangers' strategy leans heavily on power hitting and consistent on-base performance. For them, players like Adolis Garcia, tied with Mike Trout at 10 home runs but with more RBIs, are crucial. They will look to exploit any command issues Sandoval might exhibit, aiming to build early leads and put pressure on the Angels’ bullpen.

Texas Rangers injuries

  • Austin Pruitt (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Evan Carter (LF): Day-To-Day
  • Matt Duffy (3B): Day-To-Day
  • Luis Mieses (OF): Day-To-Day
  • Shane Greene (RP): Day-To-Day

Los Angeles Angels injuries

  • Evan White (1B): Day-To-Day
  • Ryan Costeiu (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Miguel Sano (3B): 10-Day-IL
  • Jose Cisnero (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Ehire Adrianza (3B): 10-Day-IL

How to Watch the Angels vs Rangers

The Angels vs. Rangers game will be televised on FOX and is scheduled for Sat 7:15 PM.

Angels vs Rangers predictions

The Halos are looking to take down the Rangers in this matchup, and I've got some thoughts on how some of their key players will perform. I think Jo Adell is due for a big game, something like 2-for-4 with a homer and a couple of RBIs. He's been struggling lately, but this could be the game where he breaks out. Meanwhile, Willie Calhoun is going to keep on raking, I foresee a 3-for-5 night with a double and a run scored. And let's not forget about Taylor Ward, who's been on a tear lately - I think he'll go 2-for-4 with a double and a walk. These guys are going to be the catalysts for the Angels' offense tonight.

On the Rangers' side, I'm high on Adolis Garcia, who's been mashing all season. I think he'll go yard tonight, maybe even with a multi-homer game. Ezequiel Duran is another guy who's been impressive, and I see him going 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored. And let's not sleep on Marcus Semien, who's always a threat to go deep - I think he'll go 2-for-5 with a homer and a couple of RBIs. These guys are going to give the Angels' pitching staff a run for their money.

Alright, so who's going to come out on top in this one? I think the Angels' offense is going to be just a bit too much for the Rangers' pitching staff. I see the Halos taking this one 7-5, with Jo Adell and Taylor Ward leading the charge. The Rangers will keep it close, but ultimately, the Angels' firepower will prove to be too much. Get ready for a wild one in Arlington!

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