Rangers Look To Spoil Wang's Return

With Brandon McCarthy toeing the rubber in New York, the Rangers will look to draw the season series with the Yankees even at three a piece.
 
The only thing standing in their way (besides the numerous beasts in the New York lineup) is Chien Ming Wang.
 
Wang is 0-3 on the year, with a 16.07 ERA.
 
However, these statistics are somewhat deceiving.
 
Wang went 0-3 in his first three starts with 34.50 ERA before heading to the disabled list with weakness in both hips. He threw 13 scoreless innings in the minors before making his return in a relief appearance on May 22, against the Phillies.
 
Wang gave up two earned runs over three innings in that game; in two relief appearances since, he has thrown five innings, surrendering no earned runs.
 
Two of those innings came against Texas in Arlington last week; this was arguably Wang’s best appearance of the season, as he surrendered no hits, no walks, and struck out two.
 
Last Sunday, Wang went three innings in Cleveland, giving up three hits and one walk while striking out three.
 
These last few appearances were reminiscent enough of Wang’s 19-win seasons of 2006 and 2007 to convince manager Joe Girardi and GM Brian Cashman that the 29 year-old was ready for another shot at the rotation.
 
It would be tough to say he hasn’t earned it; Wang’s ERA has dipped an incredible nine runs since returning on May 22, and he’s had success in the past against Texas, posting a 2-1 with a 4.84 ERA over his career.
 
The key for Texas will be the quality of at bats, as Wang will likely be on a limited, and definite, pitch count.
 
If they can chase the embattled starter early, the lineup will find themselves dealing with middle relief early, an encouraging proposition given Wang’s history against Texas.
 
The Yankees and the Rangers will finish off their series in New York on Thursday afternoon, first pitch at 12:05 PM CT.