Jurrjens against Ogando in Interleague Showdown

The Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers were expected to contend in their respective leagues, but baseball handicappers expected them to do so because of their offenses. While both squads are still well above average in most offensive categories, it’s been solid pitching from unexpected places that has kept them at or near the lead in their divisions.

Jair Jurrjens has shown promise since he was a rookie with the Detroit Tigers back in 2007. Despite not being well known by the majority of baseball fans, Jurrjens has been tremendous in his 4 years in the bigs. A phenomenal year in 2009 was overlooked due to his 14-10 record. A 2.60 earned run average that season showed that this young pitcher has the tools to become a number 1 pitcher in this league, and he has! At 8-3 Jurrjens leads his team in wins, and leads the National League in earned run average with a 2.13. He is dealing, and has the ability to sustain his current pace and contend for the Cy Young award this season.

Outside of getting hammered by the talented New York Yankees line-up on Tuesday, Alexi Ogando has been perfect this season. A 7-1 record has allowed an injury laden Rangers team to maintain sole possession of first place in the American League West. Ogando leads a Texas pitching staff that is currently ranked 15th in baseball in earned run average. Ranking 15th may not seem all that good, but when you have the 7th best offense in baseball, 15th is more than enough. The combination of C.J. Wilson and Ogando has gone 14-4 this year, and is the main reason why the Rangers continue to lead the A.L. West despite losing one of the best hitters in the league for most of the first half.

Josh Hamilton is back at full strength from an early season injury, and is starting to heat up. His .378 interleague batting average is tops in the majors, and he has been shredding Atlanta Braves pitching. This has been a tremendous series as expected by MLB experts, but Texas has a far superior offense, and is on the verge of a sweep. Tune in Sunday as the Braves look to salvage a win with their “Ace” on the mound against a loaded Texas line-up.

 

Related posts:

1. Jurrjens looks for 13th Win against Washington
2. Cain takes on Jurrjens in National League Battle
3. Braves take on Arrieta/ Baltimore in Interleague Battle
4. Rangers host Athletics in A.L. West Showdown
5. Astros and Rays Battle in Interleague Showdown

Comments