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Texas was at -128 after opening at -168.
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PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners LH Yusei Kikuchi (5-9, 5.36 ERA) vs. Rangers LH Brett Martin (1-2, 4.56)
Kikuchi was unable to build upon his two-hit shutout in his previous outing Aug. 18 at Toronto, giving up five runs on eight hits - including two homers - and three walks over four innings in Tuesday's loss to the New York Yankees. Since beginning the season 3-1 with a 3.43 ERA in his first 11 turns, the 28-year-old is 2-8 with a 6.84 ERA across his last 16 trips to the mound. Kikuchi struck out two in one perfect inning as an opener against Texas on April 26.
Martin will serve as the opener for the second time this season - both against Seattle - and also make his 44th appearance overall. The Tennessee native went through a rough spell over the middle of August when he allowed at least one run in four straight relief efforts, but he has bounced back with three scoreless appearances over a combined 4 2/3 innings. Martin has faced the Mariners more than any other team in his rookie season, going 0-1 with a 3.97 ERA in seven games overall.
Whle we will steer clear of Seattle, one has to be careful backing Texas based on this drastic line movement.
- Don Shapiro, Gambling911.com
- Don Shapiro, Gambling911.com
