Darvish’s return gives Rangers hope vs. Cubs
Texas opened the second half of its season with a clunker in every way. Perhaps the return of one of the game’s most promising righties will provide a vastly different result this afternoon.
Yu Darvish and the Rangers visit the National League Central-leading Cubs, with a 2:20 p.m. ET first pitch at Wrigley Field. Handicappers at online sports book BetDSI prefer the host squad, whereas Jeff Bannister’s crew represents a +116 underdog. The over/under run total comes in at 7.5.
Chicago plowed through the visiting bunch yesterday, 6-0, thanks in large part to a five-run sixth that chased Martin Perez from the contest. Texas had no chance of harming Kyle Hendricks either, as Joe Maddon’s veteran hurler tossed six sublime innings. Hendricks allowed nary an extra-base hit, with the trio of Ian Desmond, Nomar Mazara and Adrian Beltre combining for two singles.
Darvish’s presence on the mound could shift the entire dynamic in a few hours. Making his first appearance since June 8, the Japanese import hopes to finally gain some traction in 2016. Rehabilitation on the Tommy John front cost him nearly the first two months of the season. Shoulder discomfort then halted Darvish after just three impressive outings.
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The Rangers actually find themselves in the Windy City for the first time in three years. These Cubs, obviously, are radically different than previous incarnations. Look for Jason Hammel to muzzle the Texas lumber again, but Darvish won’t be far behind.
SATURDAY MLB FREE PICK: RANGERS/CUBS UNDER 7.5 RUNS