Two of MLB's loudest offenses will take each other on, with the Texas Rangers (50-34) in Massachusetts ready to tackle the Boston Red Sox (43-42) and their Green Monster. This will mark the first meeting between the franchises in 2023. Both clubs are eyeing the postseason, albeit with different spots in the standings before they battle. One strong week before the All-Star break would do wonders for both sides. With a 1:35 p.m. EDT first pitch from Fenway Park on Tuesday, let's see what's in store.
Closing out their first half, the Texas Rangers embark on a six-game road trip, beginning in Boston. This team should enter the break in first place, thanks to the top-scoring offensive attack in the league. Led by four starting All-Stars (and Adolis Garcia's 67 RBIs, third in MLB, as a reserve), Texas has a deep lineup. They lead the majors in batting average and OBP. The Rangers are second in hard-hit rate, third in slugging percentage, and sixth in home runs. For baseball lovers seeking Fourth of July fireworks, watching the Rangers may be the cheapest alternative.
Texas' starting pitchers have been putting on a show too, even with Jacob deGrom unfortunately sidelined. Dane Dunning is up again, looking to continue his strong string of starts. Over his past three starts, Dunning has tossed 21.2 innings and allowed six total runs. He has 15 strikeouts against three walks in that stretch. Dunning's latest outing was his best 8.2 innings, with only four hits allowed, two earned runs, 10 strikeouts, and no walks. His 1.10 WHIP and 2.69 ERA play as a starter and reliever.