Rangers Aim for Sweep Against Angels with Rocker on the Mound

ARLINGTON, Texas – The Texas Rangers are poised for a sweep against the Los Angeles Angels this evening at Globe Life Field. The game is scheduled to start at 7:05 p.m. CDT, with Kumar Rocker taking the mound for the Rangers and Jack Kochanowicz for the Angels.

The Rangers, 11-7 overall and 8-1 at home, are currently favored at -155. This matchup is particularly significant as the Rangers have been bolstered by the recent performance of rookie Dustin Harris, who will start in left field today. The team’s regular, Josh Smith, remains sidelined due to injury.

Rocker’s previous performance drew attention, as he was also the starting pitcher the last time AJM attended a game at the ballpark. He has faced challenges this season, holding a 0-2 record with a 7.94 ERA. In contrast, Kochanowicz boasts a 1-1 record and a 5.74 ERA for the Angels, who come in at 9-8 on the season.

The Rangers’ lineup includes key players such as Marcus Semien at second base, Corey Seager at shortstop, and Adolis García in right field. With a total of 68 hits and 11 home runs this season, they are looking to build momentum against the Angels’ pitching.

Meanwhile, across the state in Frisco, Texas Rangers outfielder Wyatt Langford is scheduled for a rehab assignment with the Frisco RoughRiders on Thursday, April 17, and Friday, April 18. He has missed time due to a right oblique strain sustained on April 10. Prior to his injury, Langford was performing well, batting .244 with four home runs before landing on the 10-Day Injured List.

During his time in the majors, Langford consistently ranked high in several offensive categories, contributing significantly to the Rangers’ success. In 2024, he finished seventh in the American League Rookie of the Year voting, a season highlighted by his diverse range of offensive accomplishments, including hitting for the cycle.

The RoughRiders will host the Amarillo Sod Poodles, a Double-A affiliate of the Diamondbacks, with Langford set to make impactful appearances on both nights at Riders Field. As the team aims for a winning streak, promotions for the game include “Tribute to the Stop Sign” and “Thirsty Thursday,” featuring discounted drinks at the ballpark.

As for the betting odds, the Rangers are seen as favorites, with the over/under set at 9.5 runs. Fox Sports has noted that the Angels are currently +135 underdogs in this matchup, and the contest promises to be a thrilling affair for baseball fans and bettors alike.