The Toronto Blue Jays are set to battle the Texas Rangers, as both teams wrap up disappointing seasons. With a record of 72-78, the Blue Jays find themselves at the bottom of the American League East Division. Meanwhile, the Rangers, sitting at 71-79, are currently in third place in the American League West Division after suffering three consecutive losses. In this matchup, the Blue Jays will rely on Chris Bassitt as their starting pitcher, while the Rangers will counter with Nathan Eovaldi, who has allowed only six runs over his last three starts.
Blue Jays Seek Redemption from Bassitt and the Offense
The Blue Jays are keen to avoid a last-place finish and will look to Chris Bassitt for a strong showing. Bassitt’s season has been challenging, having given up 81 runs across 163 innings pitched. His .256 expected opponent batting average, combined with a 24.5 chase rate and 4.36 expected ERA, indicates that hitters are making consistent contact against him.
Bassitt’s struggles are compounded by an underperforming lineup that averages only 4.23 runs per game. Star player Vladimir Guerrero Jr. boasts impressive stats, slashing .319/.395/.543 with 28 home runs and 308 total bases. Spencer Horwitz also stands out, with a line of .274/.364/.463 and 12 home runs. However, the overall performance of the lineup has been lackluster, as only two active players maintain an OPS+ over 100, making it easier for opposing pitchers to stifle their offense.
Rangers Rely on Eovaldi Amid Lineup Struggles
The Rangers are looking to forget this season, especially after a disappointing postseason miss just a year after their World Series victory. Nathan Eovaldi, who has been a bright spot for the team, will take the mound. He has allowed only 63 runs in 152 innings while striking out 150 batters. His 32.3 chase rate and 5.9 walk rate indicate that batters are finding it difficult to make solid contact against him, contributing to a 3.87 expected ERA.
While Eovaldi performs well, the Rangers’ offense has struggled, averaging just 4.15 runs per game. Nathaniel Lowe has shown promise, slashing .267/.362/.391 with 13 home runs and 173 total bases. Josh Smith also contributes with a .261/.343/.397 line and 12 home runs. Still, the bulk of the lineup has faltered, as only four active batters have an OPS+ over 100, making it challenging for the team to generate runs consistently.
Best Bets for Toronto Blue Jays vs. Texas Rangers
As the Blue Jays aim for an upset, the Rangers are determined to capitalize on their home advantage. With Nathan Eovaldi on the mound, the Rangers are expected to put pressure on the Blue Jays early in the game. Key players like Nathaniel Lowe and Josh Smith are likely to contribute significantly, making solid contact and pushing runs across the plate. Eovaldi’s strong performance should help the Rangers maintain control, allowing their bullpen to secure the win as they play in front of their home crowd.
