The Texas Rangers had one of the worst weekends in recent memory this 4th of July weekend. The Angels outscored the Rangers 33 to 8 as they coasted to a three-game sweep and into sole possession of 2nd place in the AL West.

The Rangers, now a game under .500 at 41-42, are in danger of limping into the All-Star break. The team has won just four games out of their last 10. At just three games out of the wildcard spot (behind the Twins) in the American League, the Rangers must keep pace to stay in the hunt.

The Diamondbacks come to Texas in a similar position as the home team. At 40-42 and 4.5 back in the wildcard hunt, the Diamondbacks are looking to keep pace in a difficult NL West.

Pitching Matchups

Game 1 pits a streaking Yovani Gallardo (7-6, 2.56 ERA), who hasn't allowed a run in 29 1/3 innings, against left-hander Robbie Ray (2-4, 2.55 ERA). Lefties have been able to shut this Rangers lineup down all year. As a team, the Rangers are batting .234 -- the sixth worst in the MLB this season.

Game 2 of this two-game series will mark the season debut of Matt Harrison who, after winning 18 games in 2012, has pitched in two games in 2013 and four games in 2014. Hellickson (6-5, 5.06 ERA) takes the mound for the Diamondbacks.

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