Los Angeles Angels vs Texas Rangers Picks and Predictions July 10th 2024

Angels, Rangers close series, look to what’s ahead

The Los Angeles Angels and Texas Rangers will wrap up their three-game series Wednesday in Anaheim, California, with both teams striving to end the first half of the season on a positive note. However, their objectives post-All-Star break diverge significantly. The Rangers, as defending World Series champions, seek to make a playoff push despite a challenging first half. In contrast, the Angels, out of contention, are looking to make strategic moves for long-term growth.

Rangers Aim for Playoff Push

Despite a lackluster start to the season, the Texas Rangers have rekindled their hopes with a five-game winning streak. As the defending World Series champions, they are determined to make a playoff run. The team’s recent form suggests they are finding their rhythm at a crucial time.

Angels Focus on Long-Term Improvements

For the Los Angeles Angels, the focus is on building for the future. Having lost three straight games and eight of their last nine, the Angels are out of playoff contention and are looking to develop their roster strategically. A significant move in their future plans involves their closer, Carlos Estevez.

Carlos Estevez: A Trade on the Horizon?

Carlos Estevez, the Angels’ closer, is expected to be traded before his contract expires at the season’s end. Estevez had an impressive June, being named the American League reliever of the month. He went 8-for-8 in save opportunities and maintained a 0.00 ERA over 10 innings. His overall season performance includes a 2.89 ERA and 16 saves, making him a hot commodity on the trade market.

Ben Joyce: The Closer in Waiting

If Estevez is traded, the door opens for 23-year-old Ben Joyce to step into the closer role. Joyce has made significant strides this season, especially with the development of his “splinker” pitch—a blend of a splitter and a sinker. Joyce’s four-seam fastball has hit 103 mph, but his new pitch has been a game-changer. Since debuting the splinker on June 14, Joyce has thrown 12 1/3 scoreless innings over nine appearances, showcasing his potential as the future closer.

Pitching Matchup: Canning vs. Lorenzen

Griffin Canning (Angels)

Griffin Canning will make his 19th start of the season for the Angels, aiming to improve on his 3-9 record and 4.87 ERA. His recent outing against the Chicago Cubs saw him give up four runs in 4 1/3 innings, highlighting the challenges he has faced this season. Canning’s career stats against the Rangers include a 2-3 record with a 5.70 ERA in seven appearances.

Michael Lorenzen (Rangers)

Michael Lorenzen, set to make his 16th start for Texas, has been a solid addition to the Rangers’ rotation. With a 5-4 record and a 3.21 ERA, Lorenzen’s recent performance against the Tampa Bay Rays was particularly impressive, as he threw five scoreless innings. Despite a late start to the season, Lorenzen ranks second on the team in wins and has been a key player in the rotation, especially given the injuries to key starters.

Lorenzen’s Road to Redemption

Lorenzen’s journey to the Rangers was marked by challenges. Signed late in spring training to a one-year, $4.5 million deal, Lorenzen felt the sting of not securing a long-term contract, despite being an All-Star in 2023. This setback has fueled his determination to prove his value, and his performance this season reflects his resilience and drive.

Conclusion

As the Los Angeles Angels and Texas Rangers conclude their series, both teams are looking ahead with different aspirations. The Rangers are rallying to defend their World Series title and make a playoff run, while the Angels are focusing on strategic trades and player development to build a stronger future. The potential trade of Carlos Estevez and the rise of Ben Joyce symbolize the Angels’ commitment to long-term growth. Meanwhile, Michael Lorenzen’s story of perseverance highlights the human element of the sport, adding depth to the competitive narrative.

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