I know they're a lot of Detroit leaners here understandably. Fister has been lights out, the only struggle was against New York in the rain-makeup game, and even that it was a few knock-around runs in the 6th- certainly avoidable given he threw some great innings prior. But with that said I see plenty of value in this Texas line. Let me explain: the argument that Detroit "has its back against the wall" is true but will have no bearing in scoring perhaps, if anything it adds pressure to a Detroit lineup missing some starters, and with Delmon Young's oblique strain (he hasn't looked the same in the outfield defensively) I see the Detroit lineup again struggling to score w/ RISP. Furthermore this Texas lineup is in stride, Michael Young broke out of his hitting slump last night, and I expect that to continue tonight. Fister has had some great showings in the playoffs but Colby Lewis is underrated, he's undefeated in the playoffs so far- 4-0 with a 1.67 ERA in five postseason starts. With that said I'll also take the under 8 1/2 (+105) @ betonline.
I'd rather take momentum than the "backs against the wall" mentality. Even then that's never a good indicator of success. I'm taking the Texas offense here, even if Fister holds down the offense, the Detroit bullpen is far less deep and has shown many more weaknesses this postseason compared to that of Texas. I think is going to be a battle for runs, and with the Detroit offense mired in some injuries you can't only rely on the bats of Martinez, Cabrera, Peralta or even Rayburn. There is not one weakness in the Texas lineup, that is going to put a lot of pressure on this Detroit pitching staff regardless of the venue. We'll see how a big park affects the offense today.
With all this said I'm taking a small 2 unit play on the Rangers.
BOL
Forgot to mention I got this line on BetOnline.com. Looks like its moved to +116, still good value.
Thank God under hit (+105) keep us above .500 for 2night, will hit it back 2morrow.