3% Texas F5 RL (8:05 ET): Note that not only am I playing just the first five innings of this game, but I’m also betting the run line, which means we’re laying ½ a run with the Rangers. I see a big advantage for the home team in the starting pitching department here. Cody Bradford, who has shown elite command thus far in his big-league career, is going for the Rangers. Bradford will be looking to turn in a fifth consecutive quality start this evening. He’s actually allowed three runs or fewer in five straight starts with a 2.77 ERA in those last four. It’s rather unfortunate to see Bradford winless in that stretch (due to lack of run support), but this is a spot where he should be in line for that elusive victory. 

The Rangers also have a scheduling edge coming into this series with the division rival Angels in that they have been at home the last two series. So no travel after taking two of three from both the A’s and Yankees over the last week. Meanwhile, the Halos fly out to Arlington in a clear letdown spot after beating the Dodgers last night. I suppose you could say the same thing about a letdown spot here for Texas, after beating the Yankees in B2B games, but they’re a team at least still on the fringe of contention and thus have more to play for here.

I’ve got the Angels rated as the clear fourth worst team in all of MLB (ahead of only White Sox, Rockies & Marlins). Opposing teams have averaged just 3.77 runs per game here in Arlington this season (4th fewest of any park) so, again, expect Bradford to shut this Halos’ lineup down. On the flip side, Jack Kochanowicz is someone that’s bounced back and forth between the big leagues and the minors this season. The Angels’ righty starter is off his best career outing (six shutout innings vs. the Tigers) but has also benefited from facing some pretty weak lineups so far and has a 4.96 ERA. 3% Texas F5 RL -0.5 (Play to -130)