The Texas Rangers open up a big series against the Houston Astros that could make or break their playoff march. Should they take the series, they will officially be back in the AL West race. Should they lose 2 of 3 or get swept, they will be formally out of the hunt.
One of the team's big deadline pickups, Merrill Kelly, will get the chance to show that he was worth the prospect capital Texas gave up when he pitches the first game of the series on Friday night.
Kelly has won his last two starts, most recently allowing three runs on six hits in 6 1/3 innings of a 9-3 victory over the Athletics on Saturday.