Starting Pitchers for Rangers-Astros Game 7

Max Scherzer, a seasoned veteran, will start for the Texas Rangers in Game 7 against the Astros. Scherzer previously started Game 7 of the World Series and delivered a strong performance. The pitching matchup will be the same as Game 3.

In a highly anticipated Game 7 showdown, the Texas Rangers will be entrusting their hopes to the experienced veteran, Max Scherzer. The 39-year-old right-hander, acquired by Texas at the trade deadline in July, will take the mound against the formidable Cristian Javier of the Houston Astros. The decisive matchup is scheduled for 7:03 p.m. and will be broadcasted on FOX.

During their previous encounter in Game 3, Javier outperformed Scherzer, demonstrating his prowess by limiting the Rangers to just two runs in 5.2 innings of work. On the other hand, Scherzer struggled in his first start after a six-week injury hiatus, surrendering five runs on five hits in only four innings. However, amidst the disappointment, Texas found solace in Scherzer's velocity, as his fastball consistently reached the mid-90s, indicating that he had regained his full strength.

It is worth noting that Scherzer has been in this high-stakes situation before. He started Game 7 of the World Series at Minute Maid Park as a member of the Washington Nationals, ultimately contributing five innings of two-run ball before his team staged a remarkable comeback to secure the championship. Although he did not receive credit for the win, Scherzer's performance was instrumental in the Nationals' triumph.

In Monday night's game, Scherzer is likely to be closely monitored by the Texas coaching staff, potentially resulting in a short leash. Fortunately, the Rangers possess a well-rested bullpen, with only Josh Sborz, Jose Leclerc, and Andrew Heaney having pitched on Sunday night, and none of them enduring a significant workload.

The official starting lineups for both teams will be unveiled a few hours before the first pitch, leaving fans in anticipation. However, since the pitching matchup mirrors that of Game 3, we can speculate on the potential strategies employed by each manager.

One potential alteration for the Rangers could involve the batting order spot of Josh Jung, who notably homered off Javier in their previous encounter. Manager Bruce Bochy has shown a willingness to move Jung up in the lineup while shifting Jonah Heim down. Heim, in turn, proved his worth by delivering a critical two-run homer to secure the lead in the previous game.

Both teams are expected to announce their starting lineups in the mid-afternoon, adding to the excitement and suspense surrounding this pivotal Game 7 clash.

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